About Alzheimer's Disease

Name of the Condition and Other Names

• AD

• Alzheimer's Disease

• Alzheimer's Dementia

• Alzheimer Sclerosis

• Alzheimer Syndrome

• Alzheimer-type Dementia (ATD)

• DAT

• Familial Alzheimer Disease (FAD)

• Presenile and Senile Dementia

• Primary Senile Degenerative Dementia

What is Alzheimer's Disease?

Alzheimer's Disease is a type of dementia that causes a gradual loss of memory, judgment, and the ability to function. It is caused by physical changes in the brain, such as the accumulation of beta-amyloid protein which forms plaques that disrupt communication between brain cells.

The disease usually appears in people over 65, but it can also affect younger people. Memory loss is the most common sign and it worsens over time until it interferes with most aspects of daily living. People with Alzheimer's Disease may also experience confusion, difficulty recognizing people and objects, and challenges with routine tasks such as preparing meals and doing laundry. It is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and eventually the ability to carry out the simplest tasks.

What are the different types of Alzheimer's disease?

• Early-Onset Alzheimer's Disease: This type occurs in people younger than 65. It is less common and often linked to genetics.

• Late-Onset Alzheimer's Disease: This is the most common type happening in people 65 and older. Its exact cause is not fully understood but it is believed to involve a mix of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

How is Alzheimer's disease diagnosed?

• Medical History: Asking about the person's health, past illnesses, and any family history of memory problems.

• Physical Exam: Checking overall health to rule out other conditions.

• Neurological Tests: Testing reflexes, muscle tone, speech, and eye movement to see how well the brain and nervous system are working.

• Mental Status Tests: Asking questions or giving simple tasks to assess memory, problem-solving, and thinking skills.

• Brain Imaging: Using MRI or CT scans to look for changes in the brain like shrinkage or other issues.

How is Alzheimer's disease treated?

While there is no cure, treatments can help manage symptoms:

• Medications: Cholinesterase Inhibitors like donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine can help improve memory and thinking. Memantine helps with attention by regulating brain chemicals. Newer drugs like lecanemab and donanemab target amyloid plaques in early stages.

• Therapies: Cognitive training to keep the mind active, regular physical activity, and a healthy diet to support brain function.

• Support: Creating a safe home environment to prevent accidents, maintaining a regular routine to reduce confusion, and providing resources for caregivers.

Trend

• In the United States, about 6.5 million people age 65 and older live with Alzheimer's disease. Among them, more than 70% are 75 years old and older.

• Worldwide, about 55 million people have dementia, and 60% to 70% of them are estimated to have Alzheimer's disease.

• The number of people with Alzheimer's in the U.S. has increased by about 8% in the last five years and is projected to reach 12.7 million by 2050.

History

The disease was first identified by Dr. Alois Alzheimer in 1906 when he noticed changes in the brain tissue of a woman who had died of an unusual mental illness. She had experienced memory loss, language problems, and unpredictable behavior. Dr. Alzheimer found abnormal clumps (amyloid plaques) and tangled bundles of fibers (neurofibrillary tangles) in her brain tissue. Researchers have since made significant progress in understanding the disease though its exact causes and cures remain a focus of study.

Sources of Information

• Alzheimer’s Association

• Alzheimers.gov

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

• Cleveland Clinic

• Mayo Clinic

• MedlinePlus

• National Institute on Aging

For informational purposes only. Consult a medical professional for advice.