Alzheimer’s Disease and Proper Treatment
Alzheimer’s disease is a mental condition that causes abnormal changes in the brain, affecting memory, thinking, learning, and other mental abilities. Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of the aging process like most people believe, but rather a brain disorder that can affect anyone.
Causes of Alzheimer’s disease
The disease is prevalent in older adults and occurs when there is an abnormal build-up of the amyloid and tau proteins in the brain, which causes the death of brain cells and tissues. According to research, as the amyloid proteins continue to build up in the brain cells, they gradually form large masses called plaques, and the tau proteins form into tangles. These plaques and tangles interfere with nerve cells responsible for the coordination of various functions such as thinking, learning, and remembering. Usually, the death of cells begins in the area of the brain responsible for memory and eventually spreads to other parts.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease will vary from one person to another. Loss of memory is common in the initial stages of the illness, with symptoms worsening over time. Other symptoms include confusion of events, time, and place, repeating questions, trouble making important decisions, sleeping problems, poor reasoning and judgment, difficulties in walking, speaking, swallowing, reading and writing, and performing other basic activities. A person can also experience hallucinations and paranoia, and other changes in behavior and personality, including agitation, withdrawal, anxiety, and depression.
Treatment
Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease or ways to stop the symptoms from progressing. However, there are drug and non-drug options that can help a person deal with the symptoms and improve their quality of life. There are two types of drugs used to treat Alzheimer’s disease.
• Cholinesterase inhibitors. This group of drugs works by decreasing the breakdown of acetylcholine, a chemical in the brain that helps in memory and learning, thereby boosting and preserving cell to cell communication within the brain. Commonly prescribed inhibitors include donepezil (Aricept), galantamine (Razadyne), and rivastigmine (Exelon).
• Memantine (Namenda). Just like the inhibitors, memantine also works by improving cell communication, which slows down the symptoms for some time.
In some cases, antidepressants can also be used to control behavioral changes such as extreme agitation, anxiety, and other symptoms associated with the disease.
We can also help by accepting and adapting to the new living condition of a loved one. Creating a safe and supportive environment for them is also very important. This involves creating new routines and habits such as keeping pictures and other objects that can help with memory around the house and also keeping them away from memory demanding tasks to make their life more comfortable.
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