Understanding Alzheimer’s: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Alzheimer

Alzheimer’s disease is a growing public health problem, affecting millions of elderly patients worldwide. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects the brain and is characterized by cognitive dysfunction, including memory loss, changes in behavior and personality and difficulty in doing activities of daily living. It is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of all cases. Alzheimer’s is caused by the build-up of abnormal proteins in the brain, including beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles, which lead to the death of brain cells and the progressive loss of cognitive function. 

Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

The symptoms & signs of Alzheimer’s can vary from person to person, but there are several common symptoms to look out for. 

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life, such as forgetting important dates or events, repeating the same questions, or relying on memory aids like notes or electronic devices.
• Difficulty in planning any task and problem-solving, such as following a familiar recipe or keeping track of bills.
• Confusion about time or place, such as losing track of the date or season or getting lost in a familiar neighborhood.
• Changes in mood or personality, such as becoming increasingly withdrawn, irritable, or suspicious.
• Difficulty completing familiar tasks, such as getting dressed or preparing a meal.
• Challenges with visual perception, such as difficulty reading or judging distance.

If you or your loved one is experiencing these symptoms, seeking help for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment is essential. 

Stages of Alzheimer ‘s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disorder that develops in stages. While the progression can vary from person to person, there are generally three main stages of Alzheimer’s:

• Early stage: In the early stages, a person may experience mild memory loss and struggle with planning and problem-solving. They may also need help in finding the right words during conversation, forgets names and start to withdraw from social activities.
  
  
• Middle stage: As Alzheimer’s progresses to the intermediate stage, a person may experience more severe memory loss and have trouble recognizing familiar people and places. In this stage, a person may experience behavioral changes, such as wandering, agitation and aggression. They may also need help with basic daily activities, such as dressing, bathing, and using the toilet.
  
  
• Late stage: In the late stages of Alzheimer’s, a person’s ability to communicate and interact with their environment becomes severely impaired. They may also experience significant physical changes, such as muscle weakness, weight loss, and difficulty walking. They may require round-the-clock care and assistance for all activities of daily living, including eating and swallowing.
  

Causes of Alzheimer

Several factors have been identified as potential contributors to Alzheimer’s disease.

• Genetics
• Age
• Lifestyle factors
• Other medical conditions

Treatment of Alzheimer

There are several treatments available that can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals with the disease. These treatments fall into two categories:

Pharmacological treatments: These treatments involve the use of medication to help manage symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. 

Non-pharmacological treatments: These treatments focus on improving the overall quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease through various interventions.

In addition to these treatments, individuals with Alzheimer’s need access to supportive care and services, such as assistance with activities of daily living and regular counseling by doctors.

Accord Superspeciality Hospital has a highly qualified and experienced team of neurologists. We offer state-of-the-art facilities and advanced treatments to help manage the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. With a dedicated team of healthcare professionals and a commitment to providing the highest quality care, you can trust Accord Superspeciality Hospital to provide the best possible care for you & your loved one.