Brady R. Wadsworth
Introduction
Alzheimer's Disease is a medical condition that is characterized by a mental decline that results in the inability to complete activities of daily living. It is most common among adults over the age of 65 and is estimated to occur in 1 of 9 individuals. The goal in this article is to inform and educate the general public by providing evidence based research and statistical data.
What exactly is Alzheimer's Disease and how does it affect someone?
Alzheimer’s Disease is a type of dementia in which a persons brain has been effected in a way that impairs thoughts, actions, words, basic motor functions and other aspects of ones life. It is a common misconception that dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease are the same thing however they are not. Alzheimer’s disease is a specific disease while dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability that is severe enough to interfere with the daily life of an individual. This condition is progressive and often begins as a slight case that is characterized by minor symptoms and most commonly progresses with time. In severe cases of this disease, it can cause the individual to become dependent on others as they lose the ability to complete basic everyday tasks. This can not only be a debilitating disease for the person affected by it but also sometimes fatal. The most common cause of death among Alzheimer's patients is aspiration pneumonia. This occurs when, due to difficulty swallowing caused by the disease, an individual will inhale food particles or liquids into their lungs which most commonly results in death.
Pathophysiology
The actual biological aspect of this disease and how it affects the brain is a complex process. It is believed to be caused by the abnormal build-up of proteins in and around brain cells which effects the cells to function properly which ultimately results in the disease and is believed to be the most common cause of dementia. The build-up of proteins is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors. During the 1960s and 1970s, aluminum emerged as a possible factor in the cause of Alzheimer’s disease. After many studies, researchers have clarified that aluminum is in fact not a cause and have moved on to other aspects of research to find a cause.
Statistical Data
Approximately 1 in 9 people over the age of 65 are living with this disease. An upward trend of cases has been noticed over time and is estimated to grow to a total 13.8 million cases by 2060.
Disease Prevention and Management
The only known way to prevent yourself from developing this disease is to simply live a healthy life style such as consuming a balanced diet, getting enough rest, no smoking or consumption of alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, managing blood pressure and blood sugar, etc. While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s Disease, there are drug and non-drug options that can help slow down disease progression. There are current FDA approved medications that are available for Alzheimers patients as well as clinical trials and research that continue to go on in hopes to find a “cure” or other methods of fighting this disease. Some examples of current medications being used include Donepezil which can help manage symptoms of mild, moderate or severe Alzheimers by preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain. Some side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, etc. Another medication used is Aducanumab and can help manage symptoms of Alzheimers patients by removing abnormal beta-amyloid to help reduce the number of plaques in the brain. Side effects of this drug include headache, dizziness, and in severe cases, bleeding or fluid build up in the brain. It is important to note that these are not “cures” and are rather ways that can help slow down the disease progression and also help manage the symptoms that come along with having Alzheimer’s.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this disease effects many people and it is important to be educated on it. Alzheimer's Disease can have a huge impact on not only the person living with the disease, but also the family of the individual. It is important for someone to reach out if you or someone you may know is suffering from AD as there are many resources out there to help.