Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a condition affecting the brain, where mental functions are destroyed. Over a period of time, it can result in irreversible loss of memory. Dr Alois Alzheimer identified the disease in the year 1906, after examining a dead woman’s brain for symptoms of memory loss. Alzheimer found abnormal clumps, called amyloid plaques, and tangled bundles, called neurofibrillary tangles, in her brain. Experts have it that around 5 million Americans older than 65 years of age are vulnerable to Alzheimer’s disease. The disease is more prevalent during an advanced age, usually over the age of 65 years. Every five years, the number of people with Alzheimer’s disease is seen to double.

Causes of Alzheimer's Disease:

• Genetics: AD can be transmitted through dominant genes in less than 5% of cases. In some cases it can occur at an early age, instead of symptoms appearing after 65 years. This is called early-onset familial Alzheimer’s disease (EOFAD). In 20%, it may be due to susceptibility genes.
• Lifestyle diseases like blood pressure, diabetes and heart problems can be related to this brain disorder
• Injury in the brain can lead to memory loss and may lead to Alzheimer's disease.

Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease:

• The first sign of the disease is loss of memory. In some with amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), the memory problems are more severe
• During initial stage, memory loss may be subtle and can be mistaken for signs of old age
• Implicit memory like car driving, semantic memory like factual memory, and long-term memory are not disturbed. But over a period of time, this also may be affected.
• Decline in visual-spatial skills, like getting lost in a familiar environment, is common
• Getting lost for words or decreased speech is seen in the advanced stages
• Poor planning and organizational skills
• Depression results due to lack of memory and poor recalling capability

Diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease:

Alzheimer’s disease may be diagnosed through physical and medical examinations and tests. The healthcare provider may start off by analysing past medical history, behavioural changes and by asking questions about one’s day-to-day activities and functions. Memory tests on problem solving, counting, and language, may be conducted. Blood and urine tests related to AD may be taken. If required, brain scans through computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to help identify the condition.

Complications of Alzheimer's Disease:

• A person affected by Alzheimer's Disease may not be able to communicate properly due to lack of recollection of facts
• AD patients may find it difficult to swallow leading to lung infections, such as pneumonia
• AD can result in poor bladder control
• Those with this condition are vulnerable to slipping and falling leading to fracture and other injuries

Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease:

A treatment of Alzheimer’s disease may involve:

• Drugs that can help treat cognitive symptoms include cholinesterase inhibitors, which can boost cell to cell communication chemicals that are low in AD patients
• Memantine (Namenda) can slow the progress of symptoms
• Apart from medication, a safe and conducive environment has to be created for those suffering from AD
• Exercise, as simple as walking, can help in getting good night’s sleep. Stationary bikes are also advised
• Following the right diet can help AD patients maintain better health

Science has advanced and research supported by National Institutes of Health (NIH) and related organisations have identified ways and means to reduce age-related memory loss conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease.