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Nearly 6 million people in the United States suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease, a condition that mainly affects individuals aged 65 and older, with the highest impact on those over 75.
The disease arises due to malfunctions in brain proteins. These proteins stop working properly, which damages and eventually kills brain cells.
Research suggests a mix of lifestyle, environment, and genetics as contributing factors.
Common Symptoms and Signs:
- Memory Loss
- Behavior or Personality Changes
- Problems With Cognitive Skills (e.g., reading, writing)
- Reasoning or Critical Thinking Problems
- Problems Making Decisions
- Difficulty Performing Basic Tasks
Memory loss is the most notable symptom. It’s crucial to distinguish it from normal memory lapses or other health conditions that can also cause memory issues.
Professional diagnosis is important before drawing conclusions.
Alzheimer’s Stages:
- Early Stage (Mild)
- Middle Stage (Moderate)
- Late Stage (Severe)
The severity of the disease increases over time.
On average, people live 4 to 8 years post-diagnosis, though some may live up to 20 years depending on various factors.
Treatment and Prevention: While Alzheimer’s cannot be fully prevented, research highlights lifestyle changes that may lessen its impact:
- Quit smoking
- Regular exercise
- Healthy diet (fresh vegetables, fruits, healthy oils, low saturated fats)
- Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
Numerous drugs are under development to help manage the disease. Early diagnosis is critical for the potential treatment and slowing down of Alzheimer’s.
If symptoms arise, consulting a medical professional promptly is recommended.
