Alzheimer’s disease
Description of the Disease
Alzheimer’s disease, a chronic neurodegenerative disorder, features progressive memory loss and other cognitive and non-cognitive symptoms. This disease is the most common cause of dementia, a syndrome characterized by a deterioration of previously normal cognitive functions, disrupting daily activities. As the population ages, the number of people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease rapidly increases. It affects 2-3% of those aged 65-69 and about 15-24% of those aged 80-84. Although the exact cause remains unclear, researchers have identified a gene linked to a higher risk of developing the disease. Factors that may influence the development of Alzheimer’s include low socioeconomic status and education, being female (due to a decrease in estrogen hormones during the postmenopausal period), head injuries, and having a family member with Down syndrome. On average, individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease survive for 8-9 years.
Symptoms
Memory impairment is the main sign of Alzheimer’s disease, initially manifesting as difficulty acquiring new information (short-term memory is affected). For example, an individual might not remember a recent conversation. Additionally, disorientation in time and space occurs, with patients struggling to understand the year or their location. Speech becomes impaired, becoming unclear as the person struggles to find the right words or name objects. Perceptual issues arise, leading to misidentification of figures and backgrounds, and incorrect assessment of contrast. This includes trouble determining if an object is far or close, complicating daily activities.
postmenopausals commonly accompany Alzheimer’s disease. Patients may exhibit agitation, decreased initiative, and reluctance to engage in activities, along with personality changes. They might start blaming others for theft or persecution and may experience hallucinations. Depression and episodes of anxiety are also frequent.
Diagnosis
Clinical symptoms are the primary indicators, but doctors also perform numerous tests to assess for Alzheimer’s disease. Biochemical examinations of cerebrospinal fluid, blood, or urine reveal specific markers for the disease. Additionally, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) shows brain damage, such as foci of brain atrophy.
Treatment
Doctors prescribe cholinergic drugs (Donepezil, Rivastigmine, Galantamine), Memantine, nootropics (Piracetam), neuroprotective agents, and psychotropic drugs.
Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology