Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other cognitive abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s typically affects older adults, but early-onset forms can occur in younger individuals.
Key Features:
- Memory Loss: The most common symptom, particularly difficulty remembering recent events.
- Cognitive Decline: Issues with problem-solving, planning, and handling complex tasks.
- Behavioral Changes: Mood swings, irritability, social withdrawal, and confusion about time and place.
- Difficulty with Familiar Tasks: Trouble completing familiar routines or tasks.
- Language Problems: Difficulty in speaking, writing, or understanding language.
Stages:
- Preclinical (No symptoms): Changes in the brain begin years before noticeable symptoms.
- Mild (Early-stage): Symptoms like memory lapses, forgetting names, or misplacing objects.
- Moderate (Middle-stage): More pronounced memory problems, confusion, trouble recognizing people, and increased behavioral changes.
- Severe (Late-stage): Significant memory loss, inability to communicate, need for full-time care, and loss of bodily functions.
Causes:
- Amyloid Plaques: Abnormal protein clumps between neurons, disrupting brain function.
- Neurofibrillary Tangles: Twisted strands of tau protein inside neurons, leading to cell death.
- Genetics: Family history can increase risk, especially for early-onset forms.
- Lifestyle and Health: Cardiovascular issues, diabetes, and lack of physical/mental activity are risk factors.
Treatment:
There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but treatments focus on managing symptoms and slowing progression. Medications like cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine can help temporarily improve memory and cognitive function. Non-drug therapies, including cognitive therapy, exercise, and structured routines, can also aid in managing symptoms.
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