Alzheimer's Disease

By Will Murray
What is Alzheimer's
● A progressive disease that destroys memory and other important mental functions
● Alzheimer’s is the most common type of Dementia which results in memory loss
● Alzheimer's worsens over time and people live, on average, 4-8 years ago diagnosis
● In its early stages, memory loss is mild, but with late-stage Alzheimer's, individuals lose
the ability to carry on a conversation and respond to their environment.
Alzheimer Brain vs Normal Brain
● Physical Changes
● Brain becomes less “juicy” and the gaps become larger
● Brain shrinks to ⅓ its original size
● Chemical Changes
● The brian also suffers from chemical changes
which forces the individual to need help eating,
communicating and dressing
● The Neurotransmitters that are generally
transmitted from one nerve cell to another nerve
cell become depleted.
● Impossible for the brain of an individual with
Alzheimer’s disease to function properly
How Does Alzheimer's Happen
● Alzheimer's disease is caused by the abnormal build-up of proteins in and
around brain cells
● One of the protein is called tau, deposits of which form tangles within brain
cells. The other is called is called amyloid, deposits of which form plaques
around brain cells.
● Research has shown that in people with Alzheimer's the barrier of the cell is
compromised due to gaps the form in usually tightly packed endothelial cells.
● Leads to a build-up of harmful molecules in the brain which then results in
swelling of the brain and reduced blood flow in it.
Alzheimer's Cure
● There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease or a way to stop or slow its progression
● However, there are drug and non-drug options that may help treat symptoms
● Understanding available options can help individuals living with the disease and their
families to cope with symptoms and improve quality of life
● Medications called “Cholinesterase Inhibitors” is the best
treatment for mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. These
drugs may help reduce some symptoms and help control
some behavioral symptoms.
Citations

● “Alzheimer's Disease.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education

and Research, 8 Dec. 2018,
www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/symptoms-caus
es/syc-20350447.
● “The Affect of Dementia on the Brain.” Dementia Care Central,
www.dementiacarecentral.com/video/dementia/.
● Sanchez, Elaine K. “Alzheimer's Disease: Causes, Stages, Symptoms &
Prevention.” Drugwatch.com, 20 Apr. 2020,
www.drugwatch.com/health/alzheimers-disease/.
● “What Is Alzheimer's?” Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia,
www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers.