Alzheimer’s is one of the dangerous diseases that everyone is exposed to as we get old. It is a type of dementia disease that affects the memory, thinking, and behavior of the patient. Unfortunately, it is one of the diseases whose symptoms can be difficult to notice since it starts slowly and worsens over time. By the time you come to realize you’ve got Alzheimer’s, it’s already too late.
Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, it is possible to improve as well as reduce the effects and rate at which it progresses. That’s why Alzheimer’s awareness is an essential thing not only for the elderly but also for the general population.
What Causes Alzheimer’s disease?
Probably the widely asked question is what causes this disease. Various researches have shown that the shrinking of the brain is what causes Alzheimer’s. However, the shrinking is just the last of the process, and that is when we see the symptoms. The process is believed to start when proteins called amyloid, and tau starts to form plaques around the brain cells.
These two proteins then form a tangle within the brain cells. So the brain functionality is affected since there is a decrease in chemical messaging. That’s when forgetting, vision, and speech starts to get affected. Then the grain will start shrinking, and that’s when the condition begins to worsen.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease
According to various studies and research, there are several signs of this disease. These are some of the most common:
- Memory loss
- Poor vision
- Misplacing things
- Speaking problems
- Difficulty solving problems
- Time and place confusion
- Mood swings
- Poor judgment
Risk Factors
It is still not known what triggers Alzheimer’s disease. However, some factors are believed to increases the risk of developing this condition. They include:
Age
There is some bits of evidence that age is one of the factors that increases the possibilities if developing Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, the highest number of people with this condition are the old. However, the number of years when one can start developing the condition has been reducing. Today, there are positive diagnoses for people in their 40s and 50s with this condition.
Family History
Another observation is that families whose one or both of eh parents had Alzheimer’s disease are likely to develop the condition. So if one of your parents had Alzheimer’s, then the possibilities of developing the same are very high. So you need a lot of Alzheimer’s awareness to deter it from developing.
Down’s Syndrome
People with Down’s syndrome are also at a higher risk of developing this condition. That is because the genetic issues that cause this condition can also trigger the body to develop amyloid plaques.
Head Injuries
People who had had serious head injuries from accidents or falls have also been found to be at high risk of developing this Alzheimer’s disease. That’s why Alzheimer’s awareness is crucial for accident victims.
5 Tips That Can Help Deter Alzheimer’s disease
Although Alzheimer’s disease is irreversible, there are several things that you can do to reduce the risk of developing the conditions.
Avoid Smoking
You must try to avoid smoking. Most people don’t know that there is a link between smoking and the shrinking of the brain. Various studies have linked a 35% increase in stroke risk. Nicotine in cigarettes has also been found to increase nicotinic receptors in the brain, which can result in promoting the shrinking of the brain. That’s why avoiding cigarettes is crucial.
Exercises- Be Active
One of the risk factors of Alzheimer’s disease is weight gain or obesity. That why exercising is very crucial because it helps to keep fit as well as keep the brain active. You are also able to reduce excess fat, which has also categorized as a risk factor. Try yoga, Tai Chi, and other movement exercises since they have been found to work great for mental health.
Avoid Drink Alcohol
Alcohol causes damage to brain health, and thus, it can be an Alzheimer’s trigger. You may not stop drinking alcohol altogether but avoid excessive drinking. Stick to drinking about 1-2 bears per month.
Keep Your Brain Busy
Keeping the brain busy is good for your overall brain health. Try playing crossword puzzles as well as brain training and coloring. You can also think of hobbies you can do in a group since socializing is very effective in keeping your brain healthy. You can also go ahead and learn how to play instruments and having a group discussion.
Get Enough Sleep.
Last but least is getting enough sleep. You should sleep for at least 6 hours at night. You need to give your body enough time to rest so that your brain cells can replenish. Note that your brain cells can replenish in high numbers when you are sleeping.
Alzheimer’s disease is irreversible, and thus, the best thing you can do is knowing your risk levels and avoiding triggers. If you already have the symptoms, seeking medical help that can slow its rate progression.