Everything About Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is identified as the leading cause of dementia, accounting for approximately 60-80% of dementia cases. Memory loss is one of the most recognized symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease. However, Alzheimer’s effects extend beyond memory loss, and it is one of the significant causes of morbidity and mortality in the elderly.

In India, Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 1 million individuals. It can impact a person’s ability to carry out basic daily activities. 

While many believe it’s impossible to prevent or reverse Alzheimer’s, there’s much we can do to manage its impact and support early care for physical and mental health. 

Hence, there is a need to create awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. It is crucial to focus on combating the stigma surrounding these conditions and promoting efforts to foster a more dementia-friendly society.

Causes And Risk Factors

• The development of Alzheimer’s is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. 

• Lifestyle factors such as hypertension, obesity, and diabetes can also elevate the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, particularly during midlife.

• Studies show that the disease is associated with the overproduction and impaired clearance of amyloid beta peptides, which disrupt nerve cell communication and contribute to cell death.

• Additionally, tau protein abnormalities play a crucial role in the disease’s progression.

• Several risk factors have been identified, including advanced age, family history, and genetic mutation.

Identifying The Signs 

• Early signs of Alzheimer’s often begin with short-term memory loss, which can progress to difficulties with language, confusion, mood swings, and behavioral changes. 

• As the disease advances, individuals may withdraw from social interactions and experience a decline in physical abilities.

• Though primarily associated with older adults, Alzheimer’s can also affect younger individuals. 

• Early-onset Alzheimer’s may manifest with atypical symptoms such as language or behavioral changes rather than classic memory loss. 

• Children with Down syndrome, due to a genetic predisposition, are also at increased risk and may show symptoms a decade earlier than the general population.

Diagnosis And Treatment 

Diagnosing Alzheimer’s involves a clinical assessment that focuses on memory decline and other cognitive impairments. Neuropsychological testing and neuroimaging studies (like CT or MRI scans) can support the diagnosis. However, a definitive diagnosis often requires brain tissue examination, which is rare. 

In selected cases (eg, those with the young age of onset or unusual symptoms), other imaging or biomarker tests including 18-F fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) testing, or amyloid/tau PET may be helpful.

Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. Available treatments, such as tacrine, rivastigmine, galantamine, donepezil, and memantine, offer modest symptomatic relief but do not alter the disease’s progression. 

Newer amyloid-targeted therapies may benefit individuals with mild dementia who meet specific criteria. Psychosocial interventions complement drug therapy, while caregiving involves modifying the environment of the patient for comfort and safety.

Preventing Alzheimer’s:

Unfortunately, Alzheimer’s cannot be entirely prevented, but certain lifestyle modifications can mitigate risks. 

• Regular physical activity

• Cognitive engagement

• Social interaction, particularly for those with early signs of dementia or known risk factors. 

• Managing conditions like hypertension is also crucial, as it is linked to both vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s.

• Adopting a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and healthy fats, such as olive oil, has been associated with various health benefits, including a reduced risk of dementia.

Specific simple day-to-day alterations can help one prevent or manage Alzheimer’s disease. One must prioritize mental health and manage stress.

FAQ on Alzheimer’s Disease

What is Alzheimer’s caused by?

Alzheimer’s disease is caused by the abnormal build-up of proteins in and around brain cells.

What are the four symptoms of Alzheimer’s?

• Increased forgetfulness, especially about recent conversations or events and names of places and objects.

• Misplace items.

• Difficulty in decision-making

• Have trouble thinking of the right word

How to prevent Alzheimer’s?

Here are some ways to prevent Alzheimer’s

1. Stay physically active

2. Prevent or manage diabetes

3. Manage blood pressure

4. Try to limit or avoid drinking alcohol and smoking