Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder affecting memory, thinking and behavior. People aged 65 or above are most commonly affected with Alzheimer’s. Memory loss is the first symptom presented in people with Alzheimer’s. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s overlap many of other neuro diseases. Memory loss can occur with age. However severe memory loss interfering with daily activities accompanied with difficulty in thinking, language
Alzheimer’s disease is the progressive degeneration of brain tissue and worsens over time. Accumulation of toxic proteins in between nerve cells of brain forming insoluble plaques contribute to degeneration of nerve cells in the brain. Alzheimer’s is not just the disease of old but early onset of disease is also observed. Early onset cases appear to be result of mutations in genes passed onto next generations. Recent evidence suggests inflammation of nervous tissue might also play a role in disease pathogenesis.
Memory loss is the first symptom presented in people with Alzheimer’s. Memory loss will be more than normal in people with similar age. Initially it will not interfere with daily activities however starts affecting as the disease progresses. Difficulty in speech to remember words, forgetting the recent conversations, difficulty in finding places that are often visited, mood swings and mental confusion are most common.
If you experience issues with memory loss more than normal and problems with thinking and behavior, consult your doctor who is a specialist in neurology or psychiatry. The doctor will evaluate based on medical history, biochemical tests (to rule out other issues), physical examinations, brain imaging tests like MRI and cognitive tests.
There is no cure for Alzheimer’s but medication is given to relieve from symptoms and to improve quality of life. Medications commonly include antidepressants, drugs to control anxiety and drugs that improve cognitive functions. Psychotherapies such as cognitive stimulation therapy help improve memory and problem solving skills
