Essay on Alzheimer’s Disease - 1678 Words

Alzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition where the neurons degenerate in the brain, while the brain substance shrinks in volume. Alzheimer’s is also the number one cause of dementia. When it was first noticed, Alzheimer’s was thought to be a pre-senile disease, but now it is known to be responsible for seventy-five percent of the dementia cases in people over sixty-five years of age. Alzheimer’s disease usually causes several years of personal and intellectual decline until death. Because there is an increasing number of elderly citizens in the United States, research into the causes and possible cures for the disease is on the rise (1). Several theories have been made concerning factors that may cause†¦show more content†¦Also, women are thought to be at a slightly higher risk than men (4). The symptoms of the disease vary somewhat among individuals. However, there are three distinct stages that a person suffering from Alzheimer’s will experience. In the first stage, the patient experiences some problems with memory loss and will often make lists or other aids to compensate for this loss. The individual can begin to feel depressed or anxious because of the memory problems. This stage often Goes unnoticed as symptoms of Alzheimer’s (1). The second stage is marked by the change from forgetfulness to severe memory loss. Long-aGo events are often easier to recall than things that have happened within the last few days. For example, one might remember childhood events but are unable to remember what they saw on television last night or what they ate for breakfast. Disorientation in relation to time and place occurs often, along with increased anxiety and recurring mood swings. The patient also experiences dysphasia (inability in finding the right word to say), increased difficulty with math problems, and loss of direction in familiar places. Personality changes will soon become noticeable when this second stage is reached (1). Finally, the third stage is marked by severe disorientation and confusion. Usually, the worst signs of memory loss and disorientation occur at night. In thisShow MoreRelatedAlzheimers Disease945 Words   |  4 PagesAlzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer’s Disease is a progressive neurological disease; it often attacks the brain tissues causing memory loss of one’s identity and regular behaviors. Statistics indicates that the rate of predicted people to get Alzheimer’s will increase briskly as time goes on. There are currently no cures for such disastrous disease, but there are currently approved treatments available that can help people within the early stages of Alzheimer’s. 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