Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a severe medical condition that robs an individual of their memory. In the beginning, they find it challenging to remember recent incidents, though they can easily recall an event that occurred in the distant past. Over the years, other associated symptoms may also set in, including difficulty in focusing, feeling frustrated, especially at night, dramatic mood swings, trouble in communicating, and physical problems like an odd posture while walking. It is essential to know the facts about Alzheimer’s disease for a better understanding of the medical condition.
- Women are more prone to Alzheimer’s disease
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, women are nearly at double risk of Alzheimer’s disease as compared to men. The symptoms also worsen more quickly in women than in men as brain shrinkage is more severe in them. Research also suggests that up to 5 percent of Americans may show an early onset of AD. The symptoms start manifesting in them as early as in their 30s. - Alzheimer’s disease is a leading cause of death in the country
A recent study has pointed out that Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the country. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the disease claimed approximately 84,000 lives in the country until 2010. Every one out of three senior citizens lost their lives to AD or another type of dementia. - Nerve damage causes Alzheimer’s disease
Though the exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease is still not known, scientists are of the opinion that two main types of nerve damage are associated with the disease. In some cases, the diagnosis revealed tangling up of nerve cells, or neurofibrillary tangles, in the affected person. In others, the formation of protein deposit in the brain or beta-amyloid plaques are associated with the development of the disease.
Types of Alzheimer’s disease
There are three principal types of Alzheimer’s disease:
- Early-onset Alzheimer’s
When Alzheimer’s disease sets in for a patient during their 40s or 50s, it is known as “early-onset Alzheimer’s.” It is a rare condition and occurs in about 5 percent of the AD patients. An individual with Down syndrome has a greater risk of developing AD. Recently, scientists have noticed that a defect in chromosome 14 and a specific type of muscle spasm called myoclonus is also related to the early onset of Alzheimer’s. - Late-onset Alzheimer’s
When AD occurs in individuals above the age of 65, it is known as “Late-onset Alzheimer’s.” This is a more common form of the disease. - Familial Alzheimer’s disease (FAD)
This type of AD is related to the genetic constitution of the patient. It is a rare form, and only 1 percent of the patients are affected by this condition.
As of today, the doctors cannot cure Alzheimer’s disease completely, but early detection through MRI scan and neuropsychological testing, and proper treatment like medication and sensory therapy helps in managing the condition effectively.
