Parkinson’s Disease
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s Disease
An Overview
Alzheimer's disease is caused by the abnormal accumulation of proteins in the brain. It is the most common cause of dementia. It occurs primarily in individuals aged 65 years or older. It is characterized by a progressive loss of memory and can result in severe degradation of the quality of life. Brain shrinkage is common in patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.
Risk Factors
Age 65 and above
Family (first degree) history of Alzheimer's disease
Down syndrome
Head trauma
More common in women than menSigns & Symptoms
The following are the symptoms to watch for in order to detect the disease early:
Loss of memory relating to recent events (e.g. names, dates and appointments)
Forgetfulness (e.g. not remembering where things were placed)
Difficulties in solving problems and performing simultaneous tasks
Confusion (not knowing the day of the week, or the month)
Difficulties in organizing thoughts and the finding the right words in a conversation
Loss of interest in activities (e.g. hobbies)
Loss of social skills (e.g. effectively participating in conversations)
Personality changes (e.g. irritability, anxiety, agitation, depression and mood swings)
Hallucinations and delusions (e.g. believing in things that did not happen)
Altered behavioural patterns (sleep disorders, walking about, difficulties in performing basic tasks)
Difficulties in reading, writing, and understanding language
Loss of self-awareness and social withdrawal
Gross loss of memory (difficulties in recognising familiar people)
Impaired physiological functions (incontinence and difficulties in swallowing)Like Two Peas in a Pod, This Screening Goes Well with
Longevity
Coronary Heart Disease
