What is Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive kind of dementia. A dementia is a broader term for the conditions that result from injuries to the brain or the diseases which negatively affect thought, memory & behavior. The transformations interfere with the everyday life.

Alzheimer’s disease alone accounts for 60% – 80% of the cases of dementia. Most patients having this disease are diagnosed post the age of 65 years. If it is diagnosed earlier then it is usually termed as early onset of Alzheimer’s disease.

No cure exists for Alzheimer’s disease however, there are treatments which slow down the progress of the disease.

Facts about Alzheimer’s disease:

Although many individuals know about Alzheimer’s, some of us are not sure as to what exactly it is. Mentioned below are some facts regarding Alzheimer’s disease:

• Alzheimer’s disease is an ongoing chronic condition.
• The symptoms of it progress gradually & the effects on the brain are degenerative as they result in a slow decline.
• There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease however, treatment could help curb the progression of it & may improve the quality of living.
• Anybody may suffer from Alzheimer’s; however, certain individuals are at an increased risk of it. This includes the individuals over the age of 65 years & those having a family history of this condition.
• Alzheimer’s disease & dementia aren’t the same. Alzheimer’s is a kind of dementia.
• There isn’t a single anticipated outcome for individuals having Alzheimer’s disease. Some individuals live long with mild cognitive damage whereas, other people experience a comparatively more rapid onset of the symptoms & faster progression of the disease.

Dementia & Alzheimer’s Disease

The terms Alzheimer’s & dementia are sometimes thought to be the same. But the 2 conditions aren’t the same. Alzheimer’s is a kind of dementia.

Dementia is a broader terminology for the conditions having symptoms relevant to memory loss i.e. confusion and forgetfulness. Dementia includes conditions that are more specific like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease & others.  The symptoms, causes & treatments could be different for these diseases.