What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

About Alzheimer’s Disease

 

• It is a progressive and degenerative neurological disorder that affects the brain, leading to memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes.
• It slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks.
• It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of all dementia cases.
• The condition primarily affects older adults, typically starting after the age of 65, though early-onset forms can occur in individuals younger than 65.
• Cause: The exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is not fully understood, but it is believed to be influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

 

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

• Early signs may include mild memory loss, difficulty finding words, misplacing items, and trouble with problem-solving.
• As the disease advances, individuals may experience more severe memory impairment, confusion, mood swings, changes in behavior, disorientation, and difficulty with basic tasks like dressing and eating.

 

Treatment of Alzheimer

• There is currently no cure for Alzheimer's disease, and the available treatments mainly focus on managing symptoms and slowing down its progression.
• Medications may be prescribed to enhance cognitive function or manage behavioral and psychological symptoms.

 

What is Dementia?

• Dementia is not a specific disease but rather an umbrella term used to describe a group of symptoms affecting cognitive abilities, memory, thinking, and social abilities.
• It is a progressive condition that impairs a person's ability to carry out daily activities and can significantly affect their quality of life.
• The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer's disease, which accounts for the majority of cases.
• However, there are several other types of dementia, each with its underlying causes. Some of the common types of dementia include: Vascular Dementia, Lewy Body Dementia, Frontotemporal Dementia and Mixed Dementia.

 

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Q1) What are Neurons?

Neurons, also known as nerve cells, send and receive signals from your brain. While neurons have a lot in common with other types of cells, they’re structurally and functionally unique. Specialized projections called axons allow neurons to transmit electrical and chemical signals to other cells. Neurons can also receive these signals via rootlike extensions known as dendrites.

Source: Study suggests new guidelines for diagnosing Alzheimer’s