How many brain diseases are there
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive and degenerative Brain Diseases that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of all cases. Alzheimer’s disease mostly affects the elderly, but rarely, it can occur in young people.
Named after German neurologist Dr. Alois Alzheimer, who first described the condition in 1906, Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by abnormal protein deposits in the brain. These deposits disrupt communication between brain cells, leading to brain cell death over time and the typical symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease vary depending on the stage of the Brain Diseases and the area of the brain affected. The initial symptoms are mild and easy to ignore, but as the disease progresses, it becomes more severe and interferes with daily activities. Common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include:
Memory loss: This is the first and most common symptom of Alzheimer’s. People with Alzheimer’s may have trouble remembering new information, such as recent events or the names of people they know. They can also forget important dates, appointments, or new information learned.
Confusion: People with Alzheimer’s may be confused about time, place, or people. They may get lost in their usual places or have trouble returning home.
Difficulty in problem-solving and planning: Alzheimer’s disease can affect a person’s ability to make decisions, solve problems, or plan and carry out tasks. They may have trouble managing finances, preparing meals, or maintaining personal hygiene.
Language changes: People with Alzheimer’s may have trouble finding the right words to express themselves. They may struggle with speaking or writing, and their vocabulary may be limited.
Mood and personality changes: Alzheimer’s disease can cause changes in mood and behavior, including depression, anxiety, restlessness, irritability, and mood swings. There may also be personality changes such as withdrawal or palace.
Loss of interest in activities: People with Alzheimer’s disease may lose interest in entertainment, social activities, or personal grooming. They may become passive or disinterested in things they once enjoyed.
Causes of Alzheimer’s Disease
The exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease is still not fully understood, and research continues to unravel its complexities. However, several factors have been identified as potential contributors to the development of Alzheimer’s, including:
Genetic factors: A family history of Alzheimer’s increases the risk of developing the disease. Several genes have been identified as being associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s, including the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene.
Abnormal protein deposits: Alzheimer’s is characterized by the presence of abnormal protein deposits, such as amyloid plaques and tau plaques, in the brain. These deposits interfere with communication between brain cells and play an important role in brain cell death.
Dementia and Oxidative Stress: Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress in our brains are involved in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Fatigue and oxidative stress can damage brain cells and contribute to the formation of abnormal protein deposits.
Lifestyle factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, smoking, and lack of mental stimulation, can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Diagnosis And Treatment
Alzheimer’s disease can be difficult to diagnose because there is no specific test for the condition. Diagnosis is usually based on a comprehensive evaluation of the person’s medical history, physical and neurological examinations, and cognitive tests to assess memory, thinking, and problem-solving skills.
