Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease is the commonest type of dementia, which is mainly characterized by cognitive deficit and progressive memory loss. Pathological manifestations include, depletion of acetylcholine and amyloid plaque accumulation in the brain. Alzheimer's disease is non-preventable, however, controlled hypertension, increased physical activities, and consumption of omega-3 fatty acid, are some of the steps advised by healthcare providers (Winslow, Onysko, Stob, & Hazlewood, 2011).

Advancement in technology has led to identify and understand the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease in more detail. For instance, neuroimaging, biomarkers, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) assays are among the most helping tools in its diagnosis. Convincing proofs relate that, disease begins years or even decades before it is clinically diagnosed. Alzheimer's disease become clinically evident, when patients starts suffering from memory deficit.

 Before any neuronal degeneration, significant variations in hippocampal synaptic efficacy occurs, according to research work evidences. This functional disability of synapsis, is a result of diffuse deposition of amyloid beta protein mainly inside hippocampus (Hardy & Selkoe, 2002). Old age depression is thought to be the most important risk factor resulting in Alzheimer's disease. However, this idea needs further proofs by research work (Diniz, Butters, Albert, Dew, & Reynolds, 2013).

Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are the first treatment modality used in treating Alzheimer's disease, however, their mode of action is still unclear. Patients get mild improvements in behavior, cognitive functions, and daily activities, some medicines like Memantine can also be used in combination with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. Although, these drugs can steady the disease progression but complete disease reversal is impossible. Some antipsychotics can also improve the worsening symptoms, however researchers have not yet developed consensus using selegiline, testosterone, and ginkgo for Alzheimer’s patients (Winslow et al., 2011).

It is reported that most of the Alzheimer’s patients are supported by their family members and friends, as a result a higher level of depression and stress has been observed in family members according to number of researches done (Marriott, Donaldson, Tarrier, & Burns, 2000). Family’s assistance in looking after the patient can have a noteworthy impact on the behavior of the patient.