Alzheimer: A Neurological Disorder

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive and chronic neuro-degenerative disease, characterized by abnormal changes in the brain. It is one of the most common forms of dementia and it has a severe impact on the overall quality of life, leading to death in the end. The condition affects one’s independence, progressing from memory loss to cognitive impairment and the inability to perform even the simplest of tasks.

Overview of Alzheimer’s disease

The progressive disorder is caused by the degeneration of brain cells, accounting for 60-80% of all dementia cases. Even though it is characteristic for those who are over 65 years of age and older to suffer from this condition, early onset is also possible. Worldwide, there are over 29 million people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. In general, one can live several years after the diagnosis and, even more, depending on the progress.

What are the symptoms one can develop?

It is important to understand that microscopic changes will occur in the brain, long before the first symptoms become visible. Memory impairment is usually the first sign, is often mistak4en as a manifestation of old age. One has difficulties remembering information and the memory loss will only continue to worsen.

One will have difficulties organizing his/her thoughts and constantly repeat made affirmations. Those who suffer from Alzheimer are forgetful, misplace possessions and often get lost. They do not remember names and have difficulties concentrating or thinking about complex matters, such as finances. Their judgment can be impaired as well, leading to poor decisions.

As the condition progresses, they might be disoriented and have trouble performing familiar tasks, such as getting dressed or taking a bath. Psychological symptoms can also be present, such as depression and apathy. One might also experience mood swings, becoming irritable or aggressive.

Depending on each person’s evolution, some of the skills might be preserved. For example, one might be able to read, listen to music or even draw.

Due to the irreversible changes in the brain, one might be unable to communicate with regard to the symptoms experienced and potential side-effects of medication. In advanced cases, one might have swallowing difficulties and lose bladder/bowel control. Lung aspiration falls, fractures, malnutrition, and dehydration can also occur (in severe cases).

What causes Alzheimer’s disease?

According to the researches made in the field, Alzheimer’s disease is caused by a number of factors, including genetics, environmental and lifestyle-related. In rare cases, a gene defect can be exclusively blamed for this form of dementia (onset at middle age).

Due to the combination of above-mentioned factors, brain proteins begin to function abnormally. In time, this leads to neuronal damage and eventually to the death of those neurons. The first region affected by such changes is the one responsible for remembering information, hence the memory impairment. The changes will continue to spread to the rest of the brain in a predictable pattern, leading to complex functions being lost.

Risk factors for the development of Alzheimer’s disease include old age, family history, and genetics (a gene known as APOE). Genetic mutations can lead to such diagnoses in rare cases. This form of dementia is often encountered in people with Down’s syndrome. Lifestyle factors, such as obesity and smoking, as well as head trauma, can increase the risk of such problems.

Treatment

Specific medication is prescribed for memory and cognitive impairment. Cholinesterase inhibitors, such as Galantamine, Rivastigmine, and Donepezil, are recommended for agitation and depression. They might lead to side-effects, such as diarrhea, nausea, insomnia, and loss of appetite.

Memantine is another medication which might slow down the progression of Alzheimer, being combined with cholinesterase inhibitors. Antidepressants can help with the mood swings, while cognitive behavioral therapy can be used to develop effective coping strategies.

Brain supplements, containing omega-3 fatty acids, gingko and vitamin E, are recommended as well. Physical therapy can support muscle and joint health, and patients are advised to follow a healthy diet and engage in social activities.

CareClinic’s health app as a medication reminder and more

If you have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, you might want to consider using the Care Clinic’s health as a medication reminder. As you will deal with memory loss and have trouble remembering information, you can trust this health app to set up daily reminders for your treatment. In this way, you will make sure that you are adhering to the medication plan and that you slow down the progression of the illness.

The reminders can be set for other purposes as well, such as for doctor appointments or even travels, and you can also use the application to record your symptoms. The health journal can provide valuable information to your doctor, especially with regard to adjusting your treatment plan. Last, but not least, you can write in the app journal about your feelings and potential coping strategies for your chronic condition.