What do we know about Alzheimer’s Disease?
ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE is a progressive disease that impairs memory and other mental functions, it is also the most common cause of dementia. There is no cure for this disease and as time progresses, it worsens and eventually leads to death. Most often, Alzheimer’s Disease is diagnosed in people aged over 65 years old, though symptoms can occur at an early stage. Although Alzheimer’s develops differently for every individual, there are many common symptoms.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:
– In early stages, the most common is difficulty in remembering recent events which is known as short term memory loss.
– As the diseases advances, symptoms include:
- confusion
- irritability
- mood swings
- aggression
- trouble with language
- long term memory loss
CHARACTERISTICS:
– The disease is divided into four stages that includes progressive patterns of cognitive and functional impairments.
- Pre-dementia
- Early
- Moderate
- Advanced
PREVENTION:
– Right now, there is no proven evident way to prevent Alzheimer’s Disease. But many of the same factors that may increase your risk for heart disease can also increase your risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Factors that may be involved include high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, excess weight and diabetes. But these healthy choices help maintain an overall good health condition, such as:
- Regular exercise
- Diet that’s low in fat and rich in fruits and vegetables
- Social engagement and intellectual stimulation