Alzheimer's Research

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Alzheimer's Research

Alzheimer's research has come along way in the last 10 years. This disease was first discovered in 1906 by Dr. Alois Alzheimer after performing an autopsy on a middle aged woman who suffered for several years with declining mental health. The exact cause of the disease remains unknown. However, the characteristics of this condition include the accumulation of excess proteins in the brain that result in amyloid plaques in abnormal clusters and neurofibrillary tangles which are basically tangled bundles of fibers.

Alzheimer's research: a general view 

Alzheimer's is a progressive disease that results in the degeneration of neurons in the brain. It is a form of dementia, a term that includes a variety of illnesses or conditions that cause dysfunctions in the brain. It can begin with what appears to be simple forgetfulness that can normally happen to any individual. However, with someone suffering from Alzheimer's it will eventually progress to the point where they lose all of their memories and abilities. It is estimated to affect somewhere between 5 to 15 percent of people 65 years and older.

Alzheimer's research: the findings 

The disease generally follows the pattern of first affecting the area of the brain that deals with how new information and memories are processed. Resulting in such difficulties as some memory loss, confusion, restlessness, mood swings and trouble making decisions. As it gets worse, higher abilities such as language will be affected. Familiar faces or locations are not recognizable. Eventually the most basic functions of how to care for oneself are lost. This may be to the point that the individual may forget how to even chew and swallow their food.

Alzheimer's research: the diagnosis 

Alzheimer's is a difficult disease to diagnose. The family doctor will be the first one to consult. This is where the recent alzheimer's research that has been done comes in to play. Typically the doctor will endeavor to eliminate any other of a number of conditions that may be the actual cause of an individual's dementia or symptoms thereof. Some disorders such as diabetes, thyroid disorders and anemia can be behind some of the same symptoms. These disorders would then be treated. Additionally, some forms of dementia are the result of an illness, an injury or possibly a stroke.

Alzheimer's research: questions to ask yourself 

Although there is at present no known cure for Alzheimer's there are alzheimer's research designed to help slow its progress down, to help alleviate some of the symptoms, to help the patient cope with the challenges of the disease, and to help achieve the best quality of life as possible. Alzheimer's is a disease that is characterized in the brain by the evidence of tangled fibers and protein clumps. There are also a number of organizations that seek to help and give comfort to those with Alzheimer's and those that are caregivers.

 

by Alzheimers-Hope

Looking for an alzheimers treatment? Alot of alzheimer's research has been done lately. A cure is around the corner.... (more)

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