What is Alzheimer's Disease?
The Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common dementia, with around 50 to 70% of all cases of dementia.
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It causes a progressive and irreversible deterioration of several cognitive functions (memory, attention, concentration, language, thinking, among others).
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As the brain cells decrease in size and number, neurofibrillary plaits are formed inside them and senile plaques in the outer space between them. This situation makes communication within the brain impossible and damages the connections between brain cells. These end up dying and this results in an inability to remember the information.
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When an ability is lost, it is rarely able to regain it or relearn it.
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What are the symptoms?
The first symptoms are usually confused with the normal aging process or manifestations of stress. As the disease progresses, the symptoms include language difficulties, disorientation, getting lost easily, mood swings, loss of motivation, lack of interest in taking care of oneself, lack of interest in daily tasks and aggressive behavior.
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Who develops Alzheimer's disease?
Anyone can develop this disease, but its prevalence rate increases with age. Worldwide, dementia affects 1 in 80 women, aged between 65 and 69 years, and in the case of men the proportion is 1 in 60. In the ages above 85, for both sexes, Dementia affects approximately 1 in 4.
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70% has a genetic origin and a genetic test could inform you for your propension. Other risk factors include a history of head injuries, depression and high blood pressure.
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Is there any treatment?
Currently no treatment is available to stop or reverse its progression, although some may temporarily improve symptoms. As the disease progresses, the person becomes progressively dependent on the assistance of a caregiver.
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Would you like to know if you have propension of Alzheimer?
Would you like to delay the disease of a family member?
Please contact us: geral@hpbrain.org
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