Alzheimers

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the most common cause of dementia, primarily affecting individuals over the age of 65. It is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques and tau protein tangles in the brain, which disrupt neural communication and lead to neuronal death. The disease's pathological process results in a gradual loss of cognitive functions, such as memory, reasoning, and orientation, and it impairs daily living activities. Early symptoms include mild forgetfulness, but as the disease advances, individuals experience significant memory loss, personality changes, and difficulty performing complex tasks.

Diagnosis of Alzheimer's is typically clinical, based on patient history and cognitive testing, supported by imaging techniques like MRI or PET scans, and potentially by biomarkers found in cerebrospinal fluid. There is no cure for Alzheimer's, and treatments focus on symptom management and improving quality of life. Therapies include pharmacological interventions, such as cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine, to augment neurotransmission, and non-pharmacological strategies, like cognitive stimulation and physical exercise. The disease's progression varies per individual but ultimately leads to severe impairment and dependency. Research is ongoing to better understand the disease mechanisms and develop more effective treatments and preventive strategies.