Alzheimer's Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Alzheimers disease is the most common type of dementia and it leads to a progressive decline in memory thinking and behavior. While there is no known cure for Alzheimers disease there are many medications and treatments that can help slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life for those affected.
Introduction
Alzheimers disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory thinking and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia a condition that affects a persons ability to think remember and learn.

Causes of Alzheimers Disease
The causes of Alzheimers disease are not fully understood but researchers believe that a combination of factors contribute to the disease including
Age Alzheimers disease is strongly linked to age with most affected individuals developing it at age 65 or older.
Genetic factors There are some genetic factors that increase the risk of developing Alzheimers disease.
Environmental factors Some environmental factors such as exposure to toxins or radiation may play a role in the development of Alzheimers disease.
Symptoms of Alzheimers Disease
Early symptoms of Alzheimers disease may include
Memory loss for recent events People with Alzheimers disease may have difficulty remembering events that happened recently such as what they ate or did the day before.
Difficulty learning People with Alzheimers disease may have difficulty learning new things or understanding new information.
Difficulty thinking and problem solving People with Alzheimers disease may have difficulty thinking clearly or solving everyday problems.
Changes in personality or behavior People with Alzheimers disease may experience changes in personality or behavior such as irritability confusion or social withdrawal.
Diagnosis of Alzheimers Disease
There is no single test that can definitively diagnose Alzheimers disease. Instead the disease is diagnosed based on a combination of factors including symptoms medical history physical exam and neurological tests.
Treatment of Alzheimers Disease
There is no known cure for Alzheimers disease but there are many medications

and treatments that can help slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life for those affected.
Medications for Alzheimers Disease
There are two FDAapproved medications for the treatment of Alzheimers disease
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors AChEIs These medications work by increasing levels of acetylcholine a chemical in the brain that helps with memory and learning.
Norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors NRIs These medications work by increasing levels of norepinephrine a neurotransmitter that helps with focus and alertness.
Nondrug treatments for Alzheimers Disease
There are many nondrug treatments that can help improve the quality of life for people with Alzheimers disease including
Cognitive behavioral therapy CBT This therapy
helps people learn how to manage the cognitive and behavioral symptoms of Alzheimers disease.
Mental stimulation This therapy helps people keep their minds active through mental activities such as reading and games.
Occupational therapy This therapy helps people maintain their independence by learning new skills or improving existing skills.
Physical therapy This therapy helps people maintain strength flexibility and balance.
Conclusion
Alzheimers disease is a serious disease that can have a significant impact on the lives of those affected and their families. While there is no known cure there are many medications and treatments that can help slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life for those affected.