People are living longer nowadays than ever before. That means that people are able to experience more of life and spend more time with family. However, with old age comes to some drawbacks. Pain, medical problems and lack of energy just to name a few. Unfortunately, the worst thing may not be something you can see or feel.
What is Alzheimer’s?
Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory. An early symptom is a difficulty remembering new information. More severe symptoms include disorientation, confusion, and behavior changes. Many people don’t even realize that they have it, that’s why it’s vitally important that the family members recognize that signs and seek early treatment.
Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. The greatest known risk factor is increasing age but it can start as early as 65. Alzheimer’s worsens over time. Late stage individuals lose the ability to carry on a conversation. Alzheimer’s is actually the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Currently, Alzheimer’s has no known cure. Treatment is available for symptoms. Researchers are looking into stem cell research for possible treatment.
What causes it?
The main thing to look at is the neurons in the brain. These nerve cells connect with each other to form communications. Some are involved in thinking and learning and others work with the senses. Their main responsibilities are to store and communicate information. Scientists aren’t sure where the problem really starts but they believe the disease prevents parts of the cells main systems from working. Just like a factory, any problem in one area affects the whole operation.
If the damage spreads the cells will eventually lose their ability to do their job. The brain cells will eventually die, causing irreversible damage to the brain. There is a theory that plaques and tangles, protein fibers, block communication among nerve cells. These fibers are normal but they seem to develop more for people with Alzheimer’s
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