Alzheimer’s Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Stages

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder and the most common cause of dementia. It leads to memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioural changes. Symptoms include confusion, difficulty with daily tasks, and personality shifts. While there is no cure, treatments can manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Early diagnosis is crucial for better management. If you or a loved one experiences symptoms, consulting a neurologist can provide clarity and support.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behaviour. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for up to 70% of dementia cases globally. The disease damages and eventually destroys brain cells, leading to cognitive decline and loss of independence.

There are two main types of Alzheimer’s disease:

1. Early-onset Alzheimer’s: A rare form that occurs before the age of 65.
2. Late-onset Alzheimer’s: The more common type, typically developing after 65.

While the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease

The progression of Alzheimer’s can be divided into three main stages:

Early stage (Mild):

This stage is often characterised by subtle signs that are easy to overlook. Individuals may experience mild memory lapses, such as forgetting recent conversations or misplacing items. They may also struggle to find the right words during conversations, which can lead to pauses or substitutions. Additionally, planning and organisation tasks—like managing finances or following a recipe—become increasingly challenging, though the person may still function independently in most aspects of daily life.

Middle stage (Moderate):

As the disease progresses, memory loss becomes more pronounced, and confusion sets in. People may begin forgetting familiar faces, places, or events, even struggling to recognise close friends and family members. Behavioural and emotional changes, such as agitation, irritability, or depression, often emerge during this stage. They may have difficulty following a conversation, lose track of time, or become suspicious of others. Assistance with daily activities, such as cooking or dressing, may start to be necessary.

Late stage (Severe):

In the advanced stage, the individual experiences significant cognitive and physical decline. Communication becomes extremely limited, often reduced to a few words or sounds. Performing basic daily tasks like eating, bathing, or moving around becomes impossible without full-time caregiver support. People in this stage are completely dependent and may spend much of their time in bed. Emotional and behavioural responses are minimal, and medical complications, such as infections, often arise.

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease can vary but generally worsen over time:

• Memory loss: One of the earliest signs of Alzheimer’s, memory loss often involves forgetting recent events, important names, or scheduled appointments. This may lead to repetitive questioning or misplacing commonly used items.
• Cognitive decline: As the disease progresses, individuals may struggle with solving everyday problems, managing finances, following recipes, or completing tasks they once performed effortlessly.
• Language problems: Conversations may become challenging as individuals struggle to find the right words, repeat themselves, or lose the thread of discussions. Difficulty naming familiar objects is also common.
• Disorientation: Losing track of time or place is another hallmark symptom. People may forget the current date, season, or even where they are, becoming confused even in familiar surroundings.
• Personality changes: Noticeable shifts in personality may occur, such as becoming unusually withdrawn, irritable, or suspicious. Previously sociable individuals might begin avoiding social interactions.
• Behavioural changes: Unexplained changes in behaviour, including sudden aggression, spontaneous mood swings, restlessness, or loss of interest in hobbies, are frequent. This can include apathy toward activities that once brought joy.

What Causes Alzheimer’s Disease?

While the exact causes of Alzheimer’s disease are not fully understood, the following factors are considered significant:

1. Plaques and Tangles: Abnormal protein deposits in the brain disrupt communication between neurons.
2. Genetics: A family history of Alzheimer’s increases the risk.
3. Age: Risk increases significantly after 65.
4. Cardiovascular Health: Conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes may contribute.
5. Head Injuries: Past traumatic brain injuries can increase susceptibility.

Research continues to uncover more about the mechanisms behind the disease, with hopes of identifying better prevention strategies.

Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease

While there is no cure, treatments aim to slow progression and manage symptoms:

Medications:

1. Cholinesterase inhibitors improve communication between brain cells.
2. Memantine helps regulate brain activity and delays symptom progression.

Lifestyle Interventions:

1. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet can improve overall well-being.
2. Cognitive exercises like puzzles and memory games may help maintain brain function.

Supportive Care:

1. Family counselling and support groups provide emotional and practical assistance.
2. Professional caregiving ensures safety and quality of life for advanced cases.

Research and Trials:

1. Ongoing studies aim to develop new medications and therapies for Alzheimer’s disease treatment.

When to See a Doctor?

If you or a loved one notices persistent memory problems or difficulty with daily tasks, consult a neurologist for an accurate diagnosis. Early detection allows for better treatment planning and slows disease progression. SPARSH Hospitals offer specialised neurological care from some of the best neurologists in Bangalore to guide you through diagnosis and management.

Conclusion

Alzheimer’s disease profoundly affects individuals and their families, but understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatments can empower better care and management. While no cure exists, early diagnosis and intervention can significantly enhance the quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Alzheimer’s caused by?

Alzheimer’s is caused by abnormal protein deposits in the brain, genetic predispositions, and lifestyle factors like cardiovascular health issues.

What are the signs of Alzheimer’s?

Early signs include memory loss, confusion, trouble completing familiar tasks, and noticeable personality or behavioural changes.

How do people manage Alzheimer’s disease?

Management involves medications, cognitive therapy, structured routines, lifestyle adjustments, and caregiver support to improve quality of life.

What happens if Alzheimer’s is left untreated?

Untreated, Alzheimer’s leads to rapid cognitive decline, loss of independence, and serious complications like malnutrition or infections.