Healthcare
improvements have contributed immensely to people living longer and healthier lives.
However, there are certain noncommunicable diseases that have affected people
in one way or the other. One such disease is Alzheimer -- a brain disorder that
causes dementia; and characterized by a gradual decline in cognitive function.
People living with Alzheimer’s disease, suffer from memory loss, thinking and
behavioral problems.
Factors
Responsible for the disease
Scientists have
found that the main cause of Alzheimer’s disease is the complex series of
events that take place inside the brain. The factors involved in causing the
disease include genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors. Since people
living in different areas differ in their genetic make-up and lifestyle, any of
these factors may increase or decrease the risk of developing the disease.
Causes of the
disease
One of the
mysteries associated with Alzheimer’s disease is that it affects older adults.
Age-related changes cause changes in the brain cells and may eventually harm
neurons to cause the disease. Age-related changes may involve shrinking of some
parts of the brain, called atrophy, production of free radicals and
mitochondrial dysfunction, to name a few.
Symptoms of the
disease
According to
WHO (World Health Organization), people with dementia syndrome can be grouped
into three different groups: Early stage, Middle Stage and Late stage. These
stages have been categorized depending upon the symptoms of the disease.
Early Stage:
This stage is often overlooked – family members and close relatives consider it
as an old age problem. However, when this stage begins, a person becomes
forgetful, lose track of the time, have difficulty making decisions; may show
mood changes such as depression or anxiety.
Middle Stage: Once
the disease progresses, symptoms become more clearer. For instance, a person
with Alzheimer’s disease fails to remember recent events, have difficulty in
communication, needs personal care, etc.
Late Stage: During
this stage, a person becomes totally dependent on others. One fails to
understand what is happening around, unable to recognize friends and familiar
objects, behavior may escalate such as aggression towards carer, etc.
Treatment of
Alzheimer’s disease
There is no
cure for Alzheimer at this point of time. However, the treatment and research
give emphasis on several other aspects such as helping people in maintaining mental
function, delaying the symptoms of the disease or managing behavioral symptoms.
One of the main aspects of treatment is the support of family members. People
suffering from the disease need more care and affection for their family
members, friends and close relatives.
