What Causes Alzheimer’s Disease?

The exact cause of Alzheimer’s remains unclear, but the disease is characterized by the buildup of two abnormal proteins in the brain:

1. Beta-Amyloid Plaques – Clumps of protein that form outside neurons and disrupt communication.
2. Tau Tangles – Twisted protein fibers that accumulate inside neurons, leading to cell damage and death.

These changes cause widespread brain shrinkage (atrophy) and loss of function over time.

Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s:

• Age – Most cases occur after age 65, but early-onset Alzheimer’s can develop as young as 40.
• Genetics – Certain genes, including APOE4, increase risk.
• Family History – A parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s raises the likelihood of developing the disease.
• Cardiovascular Health – High blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes contribute to brain damage.
• Lifestyle Factors – Poor diet, lack of exercise, and low social engagement increase risk.

While Alzheimer’s is not completely preventable, adopting brain-healthy habits may help delay its onset.

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s develops gradually, with symptoms worsening over time.

Early Symptoms (Mild Stage)

• Short-term memory loss (forgetting recent conversations or appointments).
• Difficulty finding the right words (word-finding pauses in speech).
• Trouble with problem-solving and planning (losing track of finances or recipes).
• Misplacing items and struggling to retrace steps.
• Mood changes (anxiety, irritability, or withdrawal).

Middle Stage (Moderate Alzheimer’s)

• Increased confusion and difficulty recognizing family members.
• Repetitive questions and stories.
• Trouble following conversations and instructions.
• Wandering and getting lost, even in familiar places.
• Sleep disturbances and personality changes (aggression, suspicion, paranoia).

Late Stage (Severe Alzheimer’s)

• Inability to communicate or recognize loved ones.
• Loss of mobility (trouble walking, swallowing, or controlling movements).
• Total dependence on caregivers.
• Increased risk of infections (pneumonia is a common cause of death in late-stage Alzheimer’s).

Because symptoms develop slowly, Alzheimer’s is often diagnosed years after the disease has begun.

How is Alzheimer’s Diagnosed?

There is no single test for Alzheimer’s, but diagnosis relies on a combination of:

• Cognitive Assessments – Memory, language, and problem-solving tests.
• Neurological Exams – Evaluating reflexes, balance, and sensory functions.
• Brain Imaging (MRI, PET Scans) – Detecting brain shrinkage and beta-amyloid buildup.
• Blood and Biomarker Tests – New blood tests can detect Alzheimer’s-related proteins.

Early diagnosis is essential for slowing disease progression and planning care.

Treatment and Management

There is no cure for Alzheimer’s, but treatments can temporarily manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Medications:

• Cholinesterase Inhibitors (Donepezil, Rivastigmine, Galantamine) – Boost brain chemicals involved in memory and learning.
• Memantine – Helps moderate-to-severe Alzheimer’s by regulating glutamate, a brain chemical linked to learning.
• Newer Treatments (Lecanemab, Aducanumab) – These FDA-approved drugs target beta-amyloid plaques but have limited effectiveness and potential side effects.

Supportive Therapies:

• Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) – Exercises to maintain brain function.
• Physical and Occupational Therapy – Helps with daily activities and mobility.
• Speech Therapy – Assists with communication challenges.

Lifestyle and Care Strategies:

• Creating Structured Routines – Reduces confusion and frustration.
• Exercise and Social Engagement – Helps slow cognitive decline.
• Safety Modifications – Prevents wandering and falls.

Since Alzheimer’s is progressive, care needs increase over time, requiring family support or professional caregiving.

Prognosis and Life Expectancy

Alzheimer’s disease is progressive and irreversible, with an average life expectancy of 4 to 8 years after diagnosis, though some individuals live 10–15 years.

The disease follows a slow decline, with most individuals needing full-time care in later stages. While there is no cure, early intervention and supportive care can improve quality of life.

Wrapping Up

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common and well-known form of dementia, affecting millions worldwide. It is a progressive brain disease that leads to memory loss, cognitive impairment, and loss of independence.

While no cure exists, early detection, lifestyle changes, and treatment can help slow its progression. Ongoing research continues to explore new treatments, bringing hope for better management and future prevention.