Alzheimer’s, whose world day is celebrated every September 21, is a type of dementia, a neurodegenerative disease that leads to cognitive impairment and behavioral disorders due to the progressive loss of neurons. This means that the nervous system cannot perform its functions normally. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, affecting seven out of ten cases of dementia, and there is no cure. It usually begins after age 60 and affects women more. The first symptom is usually memory loss and constant repetition of questions and comments.
According to data from the Spanish Society of Neurology (SEN), around 800,000 people in Spain currently suffer from it. Alzheimer’s is not only the main cause of dementia worldwide, but also the disease that generates the greatest disability in older people in Spain and, therefore, represents one of the largest social costs.
Causes of Alzheimer’s
Protein plaques and tangles, genetic alteration and unknown causes
The cause of Alzheimer’s is actually unknown. It is known that, early on, it can have its origin in the creation of amyloid beta protein plaques that are deposited around neurons and hyperphosphorylated protein and tau that creates neurofibrillary tangles inside the neurons. It is believed that these formations interfere with the functioning of neurons, preventing their communication.
As a genetic cause, it seems that it may occur due to the alteration in the PSEN1 gene, presenilin 1; PSEN2, presenilin 2.
The main risk factors for the onset of Alzheimer’s are:
The age. Most cases appear after 65 years of age.
Be a woman.
– Have a family history.
– Head trauma.
– Smoking.
– Down syndrome.
– Diabetes.
– Arterial hypertension.
– Depression.
Alzheimer’s symptoms
Memory loss, disorientation and others
The first symptom that may lead one to suspect the presence of Alzheimer’s is immediate memory loss. Other signs may be:
– Constantly repeating the same questions or the same things.
– Forget about conversations, events… and insist that they have not taken place.
– Getting lost in familiar places.
– Forgetting family names and everyday actions and things.
– Difficulty remembering the right words.
– Difficulty concentrating and thinking in the abstract and also in the numerical aspect.
– Difficulty carrying out tasks (control of finances, payments…).
– Decreased decision-making capacity.
– Improper attitudes in social situations.
– Wear inappropriate clothing for the season.
– Depression.
– Apathy.
– Mood changes.
– Distrust.
– Irritability and aggressiveness.
– Changes in sleep patterns.
– Loss of inhibition.
– Delusions.
Alzheimer’s diagnosis
Cognitive, imaging, genetic testing and analysis
The neurologist will perform physical tests to evaluate reflexes, muscle tone and strength, ability to get up and walk around the room; sense of sight and hearing; coordination and balance.
Additionally, you will perform some cognitive tests, tests that can be short such as the ‘Minimal State Examination’ (MMSE) or complete. The result is compared with those of the general population of the same age and the same academic level.
Additionally, blood tests, analysis of cerebrospinal fluid obtained through lumbar puncture, genetic tests and brain neuroimaging tests such as computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging or positron emission tomography (PET) will be performed.
Alzheimer’s treatment and medication
Medication and protective measures
Today Alzheimer’s is a disease that has no cure. There are drugs that act on the problems derived from the degenerative process, but not on its causes. Basically, two types of drugs are used:
– Cholinesterase inhibitors. They act on some symptoms such as agitation or depression. Its function is to increase the presence of acetylcholine in the brain. This neurotransmitter substance is reduced as a result of Alzheimer’s disease. The most common drugs in this group are donepezil, galantamine and rivastigmine. The main secondary problems are digestive and sleep disorders have also been described.
– Memantine. This drug manages to delay the progression of the symptoms of the disease in the moderate and severe stages. It can cause dizziness and confusion, but these types of side effects are rare.
Other types of pharmacological treatments aim to control symptoms such as irritability or sleep problems that occur in some patients.
Regarding non-pharmacological treatment, various studies show the positive effect of cognitive intervention programs and physical activity. Depending on the phase of the disease, the doctor will determine which program is most appropriate and the frequency with which it should be carried out.
On the other hand, there are a series of daily habits that can help Alzheimer’s patients improve their well-being. It is important to establish a series of routines that will facilitate your daily life and improve your autonomy. For example, always leave your keys, wallet and phone in the same place; program the most common contact telephone numbers; Making to-do lists and also taking medication are some of the actions that will be useful for people with Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s prevention
Reduce risk
There are no preventive measures for Alzheimer’s, but it is indicated that the risk of the onset of the disease may be reduced if one performs daily physical activity and follows a healthy, balanced diet low in saturated fats. If you suffer from diseases such as diabetes or high blood pressure, good therapeutic compliance must be followed. And if you smoke, stop doing it.
It is also important to participate in social events, read, dance, play board games, play an instrument… any activity that involves mental and social commitment to preserve thinking skills.
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