How Does Alzheimer’s Affect The Brain?

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most prevalent neurological conditions in the world, affecting more than 5.8 million people in the United States alone. While millions of people suffer from the condition, not everyone understands how Alzheimer’s really affects the brain. So how does Alzheimer’s affect the brain? Keep reading to find out!

How Alzheimer’s Impacts Your Brain

Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurological disease that results in damage to the brain. Alzheimer’s attacks the regions of the brain that are responsible for memory and language. This leads to severe memory loss and other cognitive symptoms. 

The exact cause of Alzheimer’s is still largely unknown, but it has been linked to the buildup of plaque within the brain. It is also thought to be genetic in some cases, affecting multiple people from the same family. 

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s

Treating Alzheimer’s relies heavily on an early diagnosis. In order to detect the disease as early as possible, you should be on the lookout for signs and symptoms that could indicate changes within the brain. The following are some of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s disease:

• Difficulty completing familiar tasks
• Unable to recall everyday information
• Getting lost in familiar locations
• Frequently misplacing things
• Mood swings and extreme behavioral changes
• Uncharacteristic decision-making
• Difficulty with finances
• Sudden poor hygiene or unkept home

While these symptoms can sometimes be attributed to mental health disorders like depression, they are often indicators of Alzheimer’s disease, particularly in older individuals. When you notice these signs in yourself or a loved one, being evaluated by a neurologist as soon as possible is vital for successful treatment.

Treating Alzheimer’s Disease

The way Alzheimer’s disease is treated has evolved in recent years. In the past, there were very few options in terms of slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s. Patients and their loved ones relied on behavioral intervention and other therapeutic approaches to cope with the symptoms of the disease. 

Thanks to recent research, now there may be alternative options to help slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s and reduce the severity of symptoms.

Research status and treatment decisions

Research into emerging medical approaches is ongoing. Early laboratory findings, small studies, or preliminary clinical results do not establish that a product or procedure is safe or effective for every person with this condition. Treatment decisions should account for the quality of the evidence, regulatory status, known risks, established alternatives, and the patient’s individual medical history.

Questions to discuss with a licensed clinician

• What diagnosis has been confirmed, and what else could be causing the symptoms?
• Which established treatment options are appropriate, and what are their expected benefits and risks?
• What evidence supports the specific product or procedure being considered?
• Is the proposed use FDA-approved for this exact purpose or being studied in a registered clinical trial?
• What side effects, costs, follow-up needs, and alternatives should be considered?

This article provides general educational information and is not medical advice. It does not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition, and it does not promise a particular outcome.