Memory loss, aggressiveness and speech and locomotion difficulties. These are the main symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, a degenerative brain disease that, according to the Brazilian Alzheimer's Association, affects 5 out of 100 seniors over 70.
Women lead the disease statistics, although there is no scientific evidence for it. One reason is that they live longer than men, so they become more prone to Alzheimer's.
The disease can be mainly confused with depression or even other types of dementia that may have some symptoms similar to Alzheimer's. As there is no specific exam to detect the problem, its diagnosis is usually made by elimination.
Alzheimer's disease has no cure yet, and its increasingly severe symptoms affect not only the patient but everyone who goes with it.
What causes Alzheimer's?
During the body's natural aging process, substances known as tau proteins and beta-amyloid are depositing and disrupting the function of neurons until they destroy them.
In Alzheimer's disease, it is not yet known why these substances deposit uncontrollably and at a much greater rate. The disease may even be hereditary. If there is any case of Alzheimer's in the family, you are more likely to develop it.
Evolution of the disease
In all cases, the disease goes through three stages: mild, moderate and severe. Usually the first brain region affected by the disease is the hippocampus, responsible for memory. Because of this, frequent forgetfulness is one of the most obvious Alzheimer's symptoms.
Alzheimer's progressively evolves, affecting other areas of the brain, and as the disease progresses, the patient not only has poor memory, but also experiences periods of restlessness, aggression, and has difficulty performing simple tasks such as dressing and eating. At a later stage, the Alzheimer's patient often has speech and mobility difficulties, recognizes no one, and becomes totally dependent.
The speed of disease development is variable. While for some patients it is faster and takes approximately two years to go from mild to severe, for others this transition may be slower and occur within 10 years.
When the disease is diagnosed, treatment with Alzheimer's must be started with medications to slow the progression of the disease. In addition to medical care, it is essential that the person also receive a lot of affection and accompaniment from the family.
How to prevent Alzheimer's?
There is no prevention for Alzheimer's, but the best way to prevent symptoms from getting to you is to keep your brain active. Take interest in new subjects, exercise your brain by reading books and magazines, do crossword puzzles, learn to play chess or cards. Another tip is to include omega-3 rich foods in the diet, such as sardines, salmon, olive oil, canola oil, walnuts, grapes and broccoli.
What is Dementia? | Dr. David B. Reuben - UCLA Alzheimer's and Dementia Care Program (March 2024)
- Prevention and Treatment
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