Alzheimer

Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia that affects memory and behavior.

Let us begin directly by discussing the causes.

The exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is still unknown. Research shows that certain processes occur in the brain that are associated with Alzheimer's disease. This leads to the formation of structures such as neuritic plaques (which contain abnormal and sticky protein deposits) and neurofibrillary tangles. Most experts believe this is the primary cause of Alzheimer's disease, while there is an opposing view that suggests this is not the sole cause and that other chain-reaction factors exist.

Despite the existence of these causes, there are several risk factors that can make the disease appear earlier and more severely, such as:

• Age (the older the age, the higher the probability of developing the condition)
• Head trauma (head impacts or injuries that cause head wounds increase the likelihood of worsening the condition)
• Family history (if a family member such as a sibling or parent has this disease, the probability of developing it increases)
• Gender (women have a higher chance of developing it than men)
• Heart disease and high cholesterol

The disease has two types:

Early-onset Alzheimer's

The symptoms of this type appear before old age, approximately before age 60. This type is less common, but once it appears, it progresses rapidly. This type can be hereditary, and several genes have been identified for it.

Late-onset Alzheimer's

This is the most common type and appears in people over 60 years of age. In some cases, it may have hereditary factors, but the role of genes here is weak and does not constitute the primary cause.

Are there any tests that can show if I have the disease?

Yes, diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease by a physician can be made when early symptoms are present through the following steps:

• Complete physical examination, particularly of the nervous system
• Investigation of the person's symptoms and past medical history
• Cognitive assessment testing (mental status evaluation)
• PET scans and cerebrospinal fluid analysis and biopsy

There is an important point regarding symptoms that should be mentioned: Alzheimer's testing is also performed after the person's death through autopsy and research on a brain tissue sample from the deceased. The benefit of this testing is for other family members.

Does this disease have any definitive cure?

Unfortunately, no. However, by protecting ourselves from risk factors such as high-fat diet, lack of exercise, and not following safety precautions during accidents, we can stay away from developing this disease. Despite the absence of a complete cure, some medications such as beta-amyloid protein inhibitors can be helpful in preventing this disease.

Finally, we should know that this disease, like any other neurological disease, requires the provision of a psychologically calm environment by the family and relatives of the affected person. Therefore, appointing a caregiver for an affected person provides complete support for the patient, prevents them from feeling lonely, keeps their condition from becoming more dangerous, and reduces the stress of the disease. Although the severity level of the disease varies from person to person, generally, carriers of this disease can continue living for a period of 3 to 20 years after diagnosis.

Wishing you good health and freedom from psychological and physical distress.

Prepared by: Rasti Abdullah Reza
Student at College of Medical Sciences / KUMS