How to Manage Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease

Creutzfeldt-Jackob diseases, or CJD, is a degenerative brain disorder that eventually progresses into dementia. The symptoms of CJD are similar to that of Alzheimer's and Huntington's; however, CJD usually is more rapid in the development of dementia. Although CJD is very rare, its public awareness was raised when cases of mad cow disease were appearing in the UK. The management of CJD has been a rather controversial subject matter; however, it is possible to manage this disease.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Stop

1. Stop taking any medications that could possibly be affecting your memory or cause confusion. You may need to visit a neurologist where he will tell you about either discontinuing or switching your current medication.
2. Ask your physician about medications that will alleviate the different types of symptoms that you are experiencing from CJD. He will be able to give you the appropriate medication that will help ease your symptoms. For example, if you start experiencing the onset of seizures, you may be given drugs to help control them.
3. Inquire about possible clinical trails that you can participate in if your symptoms are severe. There are always multiple studies involving the use of steroids and other medications and their affects on those with CJD. Clinical trails are very risky, especially ones that include the use of therapeutic drugs. Therefore, consult with your physician before you participate and agree to a clinical trail, since you may experience both benefits and severe adverse side affects.