Alzheimer's is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects a person's memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common form of dementia and is incurable. Alzheimer's disease can cause significant changes in a person's life, as well as the life of their family and friends. Understanding how Alzheimer's starts out is essential to understanding how to treat and manage the condition.
Risk Factors for Alzheimer's
There are several risk factors for Alzheimer's, including age, genetics, lifestyle, and environment. Age is the most significant risk factor for Alzheimer's, as the risk of developing the condition increases with age. People who have a family history of Alzheimer's may be more likely to develop the condition. Additionally, lifestyle choices such as smoking and drinking alcohol can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's. Finally, environmental factors such as exposure to certain toxins can also increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's.
Early Symptoms of Alzheimer's
The early symptoms of Alzheimer's are often mild and can be difficult to recognize. Common early symptoms include difficulty remembering recent events, difficulty with problem-solving, difficulty with decision-making, and difficulty with language. Additionally, people may experience changes in mood and behavior, such as increased confusion, agitation, and anxiety.
Diagnosis of Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical and mental examinations, medical history review, and laboratory tests. During the physical examination, a doctor may check for signs of conditions that could be contributing to the symptoms, such as thyroid disease or vitamin deficiencies. The mental examination includes assessments of thinking, learning, memory, language, and judgment. Additionally, doctors may order laboratory tests to measure levels of certain hormones or proteins that are associated with Alzheimer's.
Treatment of Alzheimer's
There is no cure for Alzheimer's, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms. Treatment generally focuses on medications to improve cognition, as well as lifestyle changes to improve mental and physical health. Additionally, there are a number of support services available to help people with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.