Alzheimer’s is a disease affecting about 5.7 million people worldwide. But what exactly is Alzheimer’s disease, when did it appear on the scene, and what are Alzheimer's symptoms?
All About Alzheimer's Symptoms
Dr. Alois Alzheimer, German psychiatrist and neuropathologist wrote the first description of a presumed case of Alzheimer's in 1906. He studied and wrote about the behavioral issues of a 51-year-old woman. After she passed away, he examined her brain after autopsy. He found amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. These peculiar brain changes would later be the identifying factors of Alzheimer’s disease. They coined the disease as Alzheimer’s disease in 1910, and Dr. Alzheimer died five years later in 1915.
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia. The cognitive decline and memory loss that individuals experience is a result of the death of brain cells. Although we all have occasional lapses of memory, those associated with Alzheimer’s disease are not a normal part of aging.
Alzheimer’s disease is a result of damage to the brain over time. Beta-amyloids clump together as they form plaques between neurons. Additionally, abnormal taus form neurofibrillary tangles in the neurons. Both of which cause disruptions within the brain, and the neurons lose their function.
When Does Alzheimer’s Start?
Alzheimer’s is most commonly seen in people 65 and over. However, there is a small percentage of those who may experience early onset Alzheimer’s. The risk for Alzheimer’s disease increases as you age and may affect an estimated 50 percent of people over 85.
Is Alzheimer’s disease Genetic?
It's believe that seventy percent of the risk of Alzheimer's disease is genetic. However, there are other risk factors such as being female, head injuries, depression, hypertension, etc.
What are Alzheimer's Symptoms?
What Do I Do if I Think My Parent has Alzheimer’s?
If your loved one is showing symptoms of Alzheimer’s, it is important to encourage them to visit a doctor. By getting them in to see a doctor early on you have the ability to explore treatment options. In addition, you may be able to see if the symptoms they’re experiencing are reversible. The doctor can also help you to create an action plan and talk about what to expect when it comes to care.
