An overview on Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common forms of Dementia. It causes the brain cells to degenerate, causing a continuous decline in mental ability. The early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s are memory loss and difficulty in performing familiar tasks. It does not have a definite cure; however, medication and treatment can help slow down the progression of the disease, resulting in a better quality of life.

Symptoms: One of the primary symptoms of Alzheimer’s is memory loss. A family member or a close friend would be able to notice gradual changes in their loved one as they begin to forget where they’ve kept their things, have difficulty remembering, or keeping up with conversations. Below is a list of activities that are hampered due to Alzheimer’s disease.

• Memory
• Reasoning
• Taking decisions
• Personality changes
• Performing everyday tasks
• Behavioral changes
• Mood swings
• Speaking or writing
• Problem solving

Causes: The causes of Alzheimer’s are not known; however, the problem mainly exists in the brain cells that are disrupted, causing neurons to die. These occurrences generally take place in the part of the brain that controls one’s ability to remember (memory) and spread to other parts of the brain. Researchers believe that changes occur in two proteins present in the brain, forming Plaques and Tangles. Beta-Amyloid, when clustered together in large quantities, is called Plaques and proves to be toxic to the human brain, curbing a person’s ability to communicate. On the other hand, when tau proteins organize themselves into tangles, they disrupt a person’s internal support and transport system in the brain.

Risk factors: There are several factors that contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

• Age: As one grows older, they are more susceptible to Alzheimer’s. Most of the people that suffer from it are above the age of 65.
• Genetics: If parents had Alzheimer’s, one’s chance of developing it increases. There is also a variation of a gene, APOE e4, which increases the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. However, not everyone with the variation develops the disease.
• Lifestyle choices: Several lifestyle choices and health issues related to heart problems may drive Alzheimer’s. Eating unhealthy food high in unsaturated fats, lack of exercise, consumption of alcohol or cigarettes, and not engaging in mentally stimulating activities often increases the risk of developing the disease.

Diagnosis: To diagnose a person with Alzheimer’s disease, the doctor will run a few tests to determine and assess their mental abilities. They may enquire about one’s symptoms, family history, lifestyle choices, and medical history.

Prevention: Alzheimer’s cannot be prevented; however, several lifestyle and health choices may help you lower its risk. Indulging in diets that provide you with antioxidants like fresh fruits or food prepared using vegetables and healthy oils will improve your health. Reduce or discard foods that contain high saturated fats. If you smoke, try to quit the habit. Exercise regularly, and if you suffer from high blood pressure or diabetes, take appropriate measures to keep it in check. Participating in social events and exercising your cognitive abilities by engaging in activities like reading, painting, playing instruments, playing a sport, and singing helps stimulate your mental and social engagement.

When to call a doctor: If you happen to notice any of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s like loss of memory or change in behavior, talk to a family member or friend and consult a doctor immediately. Although there are several conditions with similar symptoms, it is always safer to visit your doctor and receive appropriate guidance and treatment.