alzheimers

toc = = =Definition:=

An incurable form of dementia characterized by progressive deterioration of intellect and personality, resulting from widespread degeneration of brain cells. p. 190 Gen Psych Chapter 6. P. 190



= Examples: =
 * **Alzheimer's worsens over time. ** Alzheimer's is a progressive disease, where [|dementia symptoms]  gradually worsen over a number of years. In its early stages, memory loss is mild, but with late-stage Alzheimer's, individuals lose the ability to carry on a conversation and respond to their environment. Alzheimer's is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Those with Alzheimer's live an average of eight years after their symptoms become noticeable to others, but survival can range from four to 20 years, depending on age and other health conditions.


 * **Alzheimer's has no current cure, but treatments for symptoms are available and research continues. ** Although current [|Alzheimer's treatments]  cannot stop Alzheimer's from progressing, they can temporarily slow the worsening of dementia symptoms and improve quality of life for those with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Today, there is a worldwide effort under way to find better ways to treat the disease, delay its onset, and prevent it from developing.


 * **Two abnormal structures called plaques and tangles are prime suspects in damaging and killing nerve cells.** It's the destruction and death of nerve cells that causes memory failure, personality changes, problems carrying out daily activities and other symptoms of Alzheimer's . **Plaques** are deposits of a protein fragment called beta-amyloid (BAY-tuh AM-uh-loyd) that build up in the spaces between nerve cells. **Tangles** are twisted fibers of another protein called tau (rhymes with “wow”) that build up inside cells. Though most people develop some plaques and tangles as they age, those with Alzheimer's tend to develop far more. They also tend to develop them in a predictable pattern, beginning in areas important for memory before spreading to other regions. Scientists do not know exactly what role plaques and tangles play in Alzheimer's disease. Most experts believe they somehow play a critical role in blocking communication among nerve cells and disrupting processes that cells need to survive.


 * Learn more: [|10 Warning Signs]  and [|Stages of Alzheimer's Disease] .

= Analogies: = = =

= Mnemonics: = F-alse O-origins R-rusty G-gone E-end T-time

=In the News:= This story is discussing the possibility of Alzheimer's being a "fourth diabetes" [|Click!]



=Discussion Area:= include component="comments" page="alzheimers" limit="50"