Alzheimer’s
Is Alzheimer’s hereditary? Information about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for this disease.
Symptoms and Causes
Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease where neurons deteriorate prematurely. Currently, it is the leading cause of dementia and leads to a gradual decline in memory, the ability to speak, think, and maintain social relationships.
As it progresses, patients go through different stages:
- Preclinical Alzheimer’s: Brain changes begin, but clear symptoms of the disease have not yet manifested. Forgetfulness starts, and some abilities are lost, which could simply be caused by aging. Currently, research is focused on this stage in the hope of identifying at-risk groups.
- Mild Alzheimer’s: Although independence is maintained, episodes of disorientation, lack of concentration, or memory loss begin.
- Moderate Alzheimer’s: This is the longest phase, which can last for years, during which patients become more dependent. In addition to forgetfulness, attitude changes and reactions of anger or frustration start to occur.
- Severe Alzheimer’s: This is the final stage of the disease, where autonomy is lost, and physical and mental changes progress.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Alzheimer’s vary depending on the stage the person is in. The most significant ones include:
- Memory failures
- Temporal and spatial disorientation
- Personality changes
- Difficulty performing daily tasks
- Behavioral changes
- Difficulty expressing oneself
Causes
When beta-amyloid proteins and hyperphosphorylated tau settle in the brain prematurely, a series of plaques form around the neurons, leading to their deterioration. The causes of this phenomenon are currently unknown. However, it is known that in some cases, there is a genetic component. Therefore, there is a type of hereditary Alzheimer’s that develops when there is a family history.
Risk Factors
Although cognitive impairment is not related to natural aging, age is the primary risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s, which typically manifests in individuals over 65. Other influencing factors include genetics, alcohol consumption, head trauma, sedentary lifestyle, diabetes, and hypertension.
Complications
As the ability to communicate, perceive reality, and feel pain deteriorates, one of the most significant complications of Alzheimer’s is the lack of control over other potential diseases. As the stages progress, issues such as malnutrition, falls, or gastrointestinal problems may arise.
Prevention
Although Alzheimer’s disease cannot be prevented, it is recommended to follow some tips to improve lifestyle and reduce the risk of this type of dementia:
- Engage in moderate exercise regularly
- Follow a healthy diet
- Control hypertension and high cholesterol
- Quit smoking and drinking alcohol
- Exercise memory daily
Which doctor treats Alzheimer’s?
Several specialists are involved in the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s, including neurology, geriatrics, primary care doctors, and rehabilitation experts.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is based on the medical history and the information provided by both the patient and their family members. A neuropsychological screening test is also commonly conducted.
To rule out other conditions, imaging diagnostic tests such as MRI or CT scans are often performed. Occasionally, an analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid is carried out to detect the presence of proteins linked to the onset of the disease.
Treatment
Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s. The treatments prescribed for patients are aimed at controlling the disease and prolonging their quality of life as much as possible.
Certain medications can help maintain memory, behavior, and independence. Additionally, cognitive rehabilitation allows patients to improve language, memory, or attention skills.
