Alzheimer's disease: symptoms, causes and treatment

 Alzheimer's disease:

It is a debilitating brain disorder characterized by the gradual deterioration of memory and thinking skills, which leads to a decrease in the ability to perform daily tasks [1]. This condition, the most common among individuals over the age of 65, is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. Its origins lie in the work of Dr. Alois Alzheimer's, who identified abnormal brain tissue in a patient with amnesia and irregular behavior [2]. The disease causes toxic changes in the brain, leading to the accumulation of abnormal proteins, neuronal dysfunction, and cell death, especially in areas of the brain that are important for memory formation [2]. While the exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is not fully understood, scientists believe it is a complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors [3].

Alzheimer's symptoms:

Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease include memory loss, language difficulties, poor judgment, and other cognitive changes [1]. Dementia, a common symptom, varies in severity and is often accompanied by the accumulation of abnormal proteins in the brain, such as beta amyloid and changes in tau protein, which affects the function of brain cells [2]. The risk factors for this disease include age, genetics, gender, cognitive impairment, public health, fitness, education, and cultural level [3]. However, maintaining mental and physical activity throughout life can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease [3].

Alzheimer's treatment:

So far, there is no final treatment for Alzheimer's. Treatment focuses primarily on managing symptoms and slowing disease development. Clinical trials are open to individuals with Alzheimer's, moderate cognitive impairment, or without a previous family history of the disease, where the National Institute on Aging leads research efforts to combat Alzheimer's disease [2]. While research continues to explore potential treatments, current methods include medicines, cognitive and behavioral interventions, and support from caregivers to improve the quality of life for those affected by the disease.