What Is Alzheimer’s Disease, Sign & Symptoms

by Marie | Sep 13, 2016 | Alzheimers | 0 comments

About the Disease

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a condition which damages brain cells resulting in memory loss, thinking and language skills, and behavioral changes. It was first described by Alios Alzheimer a German pathologist. It is a sixth leading cause of death in America. Unfortunately there is no way to stop its growth and it keeps on rising with time.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Memory loss is the first sign of disease condition. With advancement in disease there is increase in memory loss and along with that a person will experience mood swings, increased sleeping, seizures, anger, anxiety and overall personality changes.

CAUSES

Exact reason is still unclear but abnormal amount of protein present in brain reduces the activity of nerve cells makes them weak and eventually leads to its destruction. Aged persons are more susceptible to this condition along with that genetic tendency; lifestyle and environmental factors such as heart disorders, stroke, diabetes and obesity are one of the causes of Alzheimer’s disease.

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES

In early stages, it can be diagnosed by simple memory test, personality and behavior changes are observed. For advanced stages Computed topography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are generally done which clearly shows the degenerated status of brain.

PREVENTION

There is no effective way to prevent the disease but one can reduce the risk by lowering heart related diseases, regular exercise, eating right and staying mentally and socially active. High intake of supplements pep up the Brain cells and its activity such as

Omega fatty acids (Fishes like Tuna, mackerel and Solomon)
Eat more vegetables and fruits like Berries
Folic acid improves learning and thinking ability
Purple grape protects brain cells

TREATMENT

This disease is incurable. The basic approach of the treatment is to prevent or delay the signs and symptoms. There are four USFDA approved drugs which improves the thinking, memory and speaking skills.

Donepezil
Rivastigmine
Galantamine
Memantine

Along with these drugs, proper care is a key factor which can make living little easier. A caregiver should try to maintain a healthy lifestyle of a patient by keeping positive environment all around, a proper nutritious diet and making him socially and physically active.

MYTHS AND FACTS

MYTH : Alzheimer’s disease cannot be prevented

FACT: Exact cause of AD is still unknown it could be due to genetic bent or hypertension. There are certain ways which prevents the brain function impairment such as change in lifestyle, proper diet, mental and physical exercise, positive thinking, and stress free life.

MYTH:An x-ray of the brain can diagnose Alzheimer’s disease.

FACT: An x ray cannot diagnose the brain changes. General mental tests, physical examination and techniques like MRI and CT scan can rule out the condition.