Alzheimer's disease is the one of the most common causes of dementia globally. The onset of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles—protein accumulations in the brain—marks the initial stage of Alzheimer's disease. Over time, this results in the death of brain cells and the shrinkage of the brain. According to reports, Alzheimer's disease accounts for 60% to 70% of the more than 55 million dementia cases worldwide. The condition typically affects individuals aged 65 and older, with only 10% of cases occurring in people under this age group.
The inability to recall recent conversations or events is one of the early signs of Alzheimer's. Alzheimer's disease gradually impacts a person's ability to perform daily tasks due to significant memory loss, ultimately resulting in a diminished quality of life..
Currently, there is no known cure for Alzheimer's disease. In the advanced stages of the disease, brain dysfunction may lead to complications such as infection, malnutrition, or dehydration. These complications may also result in death. However, medications may alleviate symptoms or halt cognitive impairment. People with the illness and those who care for them can benefit from rehabilitation programs and services. Let’s know more about Alzheimer’s disease, including its symptoms, causes, and possible treatment options.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder that gradually impairs thinking, memory, learning, and organizing abilities. Eventually, it impairs a person's capacity to perform everyday tasks. The most frequent cause of dementia is Alzheimer's disease (AD) globally. Alzheimer's disease symptoms often get worse with time. The disease process may begin ten years or more before the first symptoms show up, according to researchers. People over 65 are most typically affected by AD.
The existence of plaques and tangles in the brain is one of the AD's primary characteristics. It is also characterized by loss of connection between the brain's neurones, or nerve cells. Because of these characteristics, information cannot flow freely between the brain's various regions or between the brain and its muscles or organs. People find it more difficult to reason, recall recent events, and identify familiar faces as the symptoms progress. A person suffering from Alzheimer's disease may eventually require full-time help.
Following are the different stages of AD:
The signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's disease (AD) differ with the disease's stage. Generally, AD symptoms include a progressive decline in some, most, or all of the following:
Alzheimer's disease is brought on by an aberrant protein accumulation in the brain. These proteins, tau and amyloid, accumulate and lead to the death of brain cells. More than 100 billion nerve cells and other cells make up the human brain. To carry out tasks like thinking, learning, remembering, and planning, the nerve cells interact to fulfill all the communications needed.
According to scientists, amyloid protein accumulates in brain cells to form plaques, which are bigger aggregates. Tangles are formed from twisted tau protein fibers. Nerve cells are unable to carry out their functions because of these plaques and tangles, which obstruct communication between them.
The symptoms of Alzheimer's disease are caused by the gradual and continuous death of nerve cells. Nerve cell death begins in one part of the brain, usually the hippocampus, which is responsible for memory, and then spreads to other parts of the brain.
Alzheimer's disease is caused by a complicated chain of brain alterations that might take place over many years. It's likely caused by a confluence of behavioral, environmental, and hereditary factors.
Alzheimer’s disease can be diagnosed in following ways:
Following are the treatment options for Alzheimer’s disease:
Even if there are certain uncontrollable factors, such as age and heredity, leading a healthy lifestyle can greatly lower risk:
Alzheimer's disease progression can be considerably slowed down or prevented with early detection and preventative measures.
The main goals of Alzheimer's disease treatment in India are to improve everyday functioning and slow cognitive deterioration using a variety of medications and advanced therapies. To improve memory, thinking abilities, and emotional health, cognitive stimulation therapy (CST), reminiscence therapy, and memory training are often used. While speech therapy treats communication issues, occupational therapy assists patients in maintaining their independence in day-to-day tasks. These treatments have demonstrated a high percentage of effectiveness in enhancing life quality and slowing the course of disease. In India, brain stimulation techniques are also available to enhance the treatment and recovery outcomes of the patients.
If you are looking for the best Alzheimer’s care and personalized therapeutic treatments from experts for your loved ones, then book your appointment at Walk Again today!
Q1: Is Alzheimer's treatment in India affordable?
A: In India, therapy and other Alzheimer's therapies are less expensive than in many other nations. Even for specialized care, many hospitals in India provide affordable prices.
Q2: How much time does therapy take to treat Alzheimer's?
A: The length of therapy varies according to the severity of the disease and the needs of each patient. Improving and enhancing cognitive function can be achieved with regular sessions stretched out over months or even years.
Q3: Is there support for caregivers during Alzheimer's treatment in India?
A: Yes, caregiver support programs are available at many facilities, such as Walk Again. These programs offer training, emotional support, and guidance on how to deal with the difficulties associated with taking care of an Alzheimer's patient.