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Perhaps one of the greatest assets we possess is that of our memory. With a well functioning mind we are capable of learning numerous facts and activities and are also able to recall events from the distant past. However, as our population ages we are beginning to see an emergence of numerous individuals who are experiencing a decline in their ability to not only recall information but also in their daily functional abilities. This progressive decline is what many refer to as Alzheimer's disease, which is related to a gradual loss of mental and memory function and is most often associated with aging.
Alzheimer's was discovered in the early 1900's by Alois Alzheimer, and though it has been researched for over a century the exact cause of the disease has not yet been identified. Several theories do exist ranging from the formation of harmful plaques in the brain to the loss of nerves in the brain that produce a special neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. Regardless, Alzheimer's is becoming more and more of a problem as our population ages. It is estimated that around one percent of the population in the United States has Alzheimer's and that nearly forty percent of those who are over the age of 85 may experience it. The costs associated with the disease due to care requirements and loss of function are estimated to top $100 billion per year, thus it is of no surprise that there has recently been a dramatic increase in the efforts to research ways to treat such a detrimental disorder.
So what makes a person more susceptible to developing Alzheimer's? There are several key risk factors to watch for that may increase the likelihood that you or a loved one may experience Alzheimer's. Age appears to be one of the strongest risks, which increases
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from about age 65 on, and gets even greater at ages 85 or older. Family history is also high on the list, as there appears to be some genetic ties to the development of the disease. Other risks include smoking (which increases the risk 2-4 times), trauma to the brain from severe head injuries, and a low education level. However, bear in mind that these are simply risks and do not guarantee that you will get the disease; many individuals may live healthy lives free of Alzheimer's despite possessing some of the risks of the disease.
How does someone get diagnosed with Alzheimer's? Typically if there have been prior concerns about memory decline it would be best to schedule a visit with your primary care provider. Often they will have a specialist in Alzheimer's or a trained neurologist administer several tests that help to determine memory function. These tests range from verbal and written tests for the analysis of memory to laboratory testing set to rule out other causes.
What treatment options are out there? Unfortunately there is not presently a 'cure' for Alzheimer's that will completely reverse the damage of memory decline, but there are several treatments available that may help to maintain or slow the decline in memory loss. The available prescription drugs work to preserve or enhance the function of nerve cells linked to memory. Additionally, some over-the-counter products have shown some promise in maintaining memory function. Ginkgo Biloba has shown to possibly have some helpful effects in several clinical trials that have been performed, and vitamin E at 400 IU or less per day has also displayed some benefit. However, if you are looking into over-the-counter products make sure that you
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consult with your primary care provider or your pharmacist beforehand to ensure you are taking the proper regimen.
Ultimately, it can be very difficult to discover that a loved one may be experiencing signs of the development of Alzheimer's disease. Perhaps the most beneficial assistance of all is the loving support and care provided by a supportive family. Additionally, with the development of new treatment options on the horizon and the progression of available treatments the future looks very bright for those with Alzheimer's disease.
If you would like further information please take the time to speak to your physician or pharmacist on the matter. Additionally, you can find more detailed information at the following website for the Alzheimer's Association: www.alz.org.
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