Alzheimer’s Disease – Causes,Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Prevention

According to the World Health Organization, approximately 55 million individuals globally have dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease comprising 60-70% of these cases. In India alone, over 4 million individuals are estimated to be living with dementia, highlighting the global impact of the disease. This article offers a comprehensive examination of Alzheimer’s, covering its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and Alzheimer’s preventive measures.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s is a chronic neurodegenerative condition that typically starts slowly but worsens over time. It mainly affects memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to do daily activities. This condition is marked by the accumulation of tau tangles and amyloid plaques in one’s brain, which causes brain cells to die and leads to a decline in cognitive abilities. Although it is most prevalent in individuals over the age of 65, it can also affect younger people in rare cases.

What are the Causes of Alzheimer’s Disease?

The exact Alzheimer’s disease causes are not yet fully understood, but a combination of lifestyle factors, genetic and environmental, is believed to contribute to its development. Key factors include:

Age

Increasing age is one of the major risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease. The probability of developing Alzheimer’s approximately doubles every five years after the age of 65. In fact, according to the National Institute of Aging, nearly one-third of people aged 85 and older may have Alzheimer’s.

Family history

Having a parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s disease increases an individual’s risk of developing the condition. Those with a first-degree relative who has Alzheimer’s are at a higher risk compared to those without such a family history.

Genetics

The Alzheimer’s Association states that researchers have found several gene variants that raise the chance of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The most common risk gene associated with this disease is the APOE-e4 gene.

Traumatic brain injury

Moderate to severe traumatic brain injuries can raise the risk of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. These injuries are characterised by incidents that result in loss of consciousness or amnesia lasting more than 30 minutes.

Health conditions

Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other conditions that affect blood vessels and the heart may contribute to Alzheimer’s. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and other vascular conditions can damage the brain over time.

What are the Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease?

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the following are the most common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. These symptoms commonly include:

Memory loss impacts work-related tasks, particularly short-term memory decline.
Challenges in executing familiar activities.
Language difficulties.
Confusion regarding time and location.
Diminished judgment or decision-making capabilities.
Impairment in abstract thinking.
Misplacement of items.
Shifts in mood or behaviour.
Alterations in personality.
Decline in motivation or initiative.

How is Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease involves a comprehensive approach, including medical history, physical and neurological exams, and various tests. Essential diagnostic methods include:

Medical history and examination: A thorough review of the patient’s medical history, including any family history of Alzheimer’s disease, is essential. Physical and neurological exams help assess cognitive and functional abilities.
Cognitive tests: Standardised tests like the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) or the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) evaluate memory, problem-solving, and other cognitive skills.
Brain imaging: Imaging techniques such as PET scans and MRI are used to detect brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s, such as atrophy and amyloid plaques.
Laboratory tests: Blood tests and cerebrospinal fluid analysis can help rule out other conditions and support the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.

How to Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease?

Although there is no definitive cure for Alzheimer’s disease, certain lifestyle changes may help in preventing it. Harvard Health Publishing suggests the following tips:

Engage in exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help mitigate the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or slow its progression. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderately vigorous aerobic exercise three to four times weekly.

Follow a mediterranean diet: Adopting a healthy diet is another way to prevent Alzheimer’s. This diet includes fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes, olive oil, whole grains, nuts, fish, and moderate amounts of poultry, eggs, and dairy.

Prioritise sleep: Quality sleep aids in clearing amyloid from the brain, which can help prevent Alzheimer’s. Aim to get atleast seven to eight hours of sleep every night.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also suggests making various lifestyle improvements to help prevent this disease. These include:

Prevent and manage high blood pressure.
Manage blood sugar levels.
Quit smoking.
Avoid excessive drinking.

Alzheimer’s disease is a complex condition that significantly impacts individuals and their families. Early recognition of symptoms and timely diagnosis can lead to more effective management. If anyone is experiencing Alzheimer-related symptoms, they must consult with their doctor and book an Alzheimer’s test with Dr Lal Pathlabs today.