Alzheimer Disease Explained
By John Reed on Feb 25, 2009 with Comments 0
Our brain is an extremely complex organ and is the boss of the body as it has the controls of the body within its nerves. Dysfunction in the working of the brain is the result of the onset of a disease called Alzheimer’s disease named after a German physician Aloise Alzheimer. The part of the brain cells which control thought, memory and language deteriorates. It is a severe disorder which starts worsening with the passage of time.
It usually affects people who have passed the threshold of 65 years. This disease can cause irreversible damage to certain nerve cells of the susceptible areas of the brain. Transmission of nerve cells is encumbered due to nerve-cell loss, uncharacteristic interweaving of the nerves and absence of some chemicals. This can cause hindrance in recalling things and an inability to think properly. It also causes forgetfulness, language difficulties and paranoia. As the stages of the disease advances it becomes increasingly difficult to comprehend the patient. Patients may not even recognize family members and may forget even the simplest of habits like brushing their teeth or combing their hair. Ultimately the patients are bedridden and need total care and support of their families and friends.
It is a de-generative disease which can destruct the social life of a person. The cure of this disease still remains unknown. However the scientists have identified the risk factors which cause the probability of developing this disease. Some of them are listed below.
- Progression in age
- Heredity and genes
- Critical head injury
- Environmental elements like air and water
- Imbalance of chemicals in the body or difficulties with the immune system
- High blood pressure and cholesterol
- Heart attack or stroke
- Diabetes
- Smoking excessively or consuming too much alcohol
- Depression
- Deficiencies of vitamins and minerals
- Exposure to environmental toxins
- Down syndrome
There are warning signs which can be interpreted as the oncoming of this disease. Some of which are:
- Loss of memory
- Effort required in performing of everyday and easy tasks
- Language problems
- Forgetfulness
- Losing or misplacing things
- Personality changes
- Behavioral changes or mood swings
- Irritation
- Delusions and hallucinations
- Difficulty in recognizing faces or recalling names
- Disruption of bowel control and bladder
- Fretfulness
- Sleeplessness
- Low concentration span
- Decreased judgment
- Confusion regarding time and places
Once these symptoms are experienced it is extremely important to consult a physician and attain an early diagnosis so that there is a better chance of profiting from the treatment and planning the future. It is crucial that the doctor determines the exact cause of these symptoms as some of them are due to reversible conditions like depression, anemia or vitamin deficiencies. A physician examines the medical history and performs neurological and physical examinations. He may also conduct urine tests or CAT scan to detect the disorders of the brain.
One the diagnoses is made best possible treatment is suggested which can aid in cognitive and behavioral symptoms to slow down the rate of the progression of disease thereby improving the quality of life. Apart from medications it is vital to exercise daily, eat a healthy diet, and engage in brain stimulating tasks. Support from family members in such a crucial period is always a strong pillar of hope to combat this disease. Often family members have to sacrifice their needs and give their utmost care to the patient.
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