Alzheimer’s Disease

More than 6.5 million people aged over 65 in the United States live with Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects the brain’s ability to function properly, leading to cognitive decline, memory loss, and impaired reasoning abilities. German psychiatrist and neurologist Dr. Alois Alzheimer was the first to identify the condition in 1906. The condition was later named after him. It’s the most common cause of dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the accumulation of abnormal protein deposits in the brain, particularly amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Here are a few key biological features of Alzheimer’s disease:

• Amyloid Plaques: Abnormal clumps of beta-amyloid protein that accumulate between neurons, disrupting communication.
• Neurofibrillary Tangles: Twisted fibers of tau protein that form inside neurons, leading to cell degeneration.
• Neuronal Death: As the disease progresses, neurons lose their connections, degenerate, and die, worsening symptoms over time.

The earliest sign of Alzheimer’s Disease is when a person starts forgetting things. Let’s take a look at some of the most Common Behaviors Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease.

• Memory Loss: Forgetting recent events, conversations, and names.
• Confusion and Disorientation: Difficulty recognizing familiar people, places, and times.
• Repetitive Actions: Repeating questions, phrases, or tasks.
• Wandering: Moving around aimlessly, sometimes getting lost even in familiar places.
• Aggression and Irritability: Sudden mood swings, frustration, and anger.
• Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty sleeping or reversed sleep-wake cycles.
• Paranoia and Suspicion: Believing others are stealing or hiding things.
• Difficulty with Complex Tasks: Struggling with planning, organizing, or following instructions.
• Social Withdrawal: Losing interest in activities and avoiding social interactions.
• Poor Judgment: Making decisions that are out of character or risky.
• Hallucinations and Delusions: Seeing or believing things that aren’t real.
• Apathy and Lack of Initiative: Showing reduced interest in activities once

While the exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease is still not fully understood, several factors are known to increase the risk of developing the condition.

These are the factors that increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease:

• Age: Age is the most significant risk factor, with the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s doubling approximately every five years after the age of 65.
• Genetics: Genetics also plays a crucial role, particularly in cases of early-onset Alzheimer’s, which can occur in individuals as young as their 30s or 40s.
• Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, obesity, lack of physical activity, and poor diet contribute to increased risk.
• Medical Conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are also responsible for causing Alzheimer’s Disease.

There is no single test for Alzheimer’s. Diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease involves a combination of clinical assessments, cognitive tests, and imaging techniques. Let’s take a brief look at the diagnosis process:

• Review of symptoms and family history.
• Physical examination to rule out other conditions.

• Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) to assess memory, attention, language, and problem-solving abilities.
• Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) to evaluate cognitive functions more thoroughly.

• Tests reflexes, coordination, and balance to detect neurological issues.

• MRI and CT Scan to Identify brain atrophy or rule out other conditions.
• PET Scan to detect amyloid plaques or tau tangles.

Blood tests to rule out other causes of cognitive decline.Spinal fluid analysis for biomarkers like beta-amyloid and tau proteins.

Assesses depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions that may mimic dementia.

Sadly Alzheimer’s disease is currently incurable. However, various treatments are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. It’s important a person with the symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease promptly see a consultant to reduce further damage. Early diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan are vital for managing the quality of life and reducing the risk of further damage. These treatments focus on both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches:

• Cholinesterase Inhibitors: Your doctor may prescribe you Donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine to increase acetylcholine levels, improving memory and cognitive function.
• Memantine: This helps Regulate glutamate activity to enhance memory and attention.

• Cognitive Stimulation: These non-pharmacological activities and exercises are designed to maintain cognitive abilities.
• Behavioral Strategies: Techniques to manage symptoms such as agitation and sleep disturbances.

• Creating a safe environment and establishing daily routines is crucial.
• Caregivers play a significant role in providing emotional support and managing daily tasks.

• Research is ongoing into monoclonal antibodies that target amyloid plaques, aiming to slow disease progression.

A patient with Alzheimer’s Disease may even not notice their symptoms because of their condition. It’s their family member that should check their condition and take action accordingly. A person should see a doctor for Alzheimer’s disease when they or their loved ones notice early signs of memory loss or cognitive decline that interfere with daily life. Some specific situations to seek medical advice include:

• Memory Problems: Frequent forgetfulness, especially with recent events, names, or appointments.
• Difficulty Performing Familiar Tasks: Struggling with routine activities like cooking, driving, or managing finances.
• Confusion with Time or Place: Getting lost in familiar areas or forgetting the date and time.
• Language Issues: Trouble finding the right words, following conversations, or repeating themselves.
• Poor Judgment: Making unusual decisions, such as giving away money or neglecting personal care.
• Personality Changes: Becoming unusually anxious, depressed, or withdrawn.

Early diagnosis allows for better management of the condition, access to treatments, and planning for the future. If these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider promptly.