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Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative disorder of the cerebral cortex
that is widespread among people in mid - old age. It appears that cerebral
nerve cells degenerate and the brain substance shrinks, causing failing
memory and later dementia.
Sufferers at first find themselves becoming worryingly forgetful, perhaps
writing lists and seeking help from others to keep on top of daily chores.
Anxiety is usually present as the memory of recent events fails and
memories of long ago become lucid. Sufferers begin to lose their way
in familiar places and gradually become severely disorientated.
Causes
Alzheimer is a complex condition that is not yet fully understood. High
levels of aluminium and mercury have been found in the brain tissue
of suffers but it is not clear whether this is a cause or a result of
the disease.
Chemical theories suggest that the brain is undergoing a decline in
growth-promoting factors that maintain cerebral health. The chemical
deficiency theory has led to research into replacement of low levels
of chemicals called neurotransmitters that help brain cells communicate
with each other.
The extent of genetic factors remains unclear; close family members
often suffer from the disease but this could equally be due to exposure
to the same environmental conditions that could be playing a part.
The autoimmune theory or the slow virus theory still remain to be proved
or ruled out in the search for a cure.
Treatment
As there is no cure yet, Alzheimer patients are usually kept as comfortable
as possible with a watchful eye kept over them. It is important to keep
occupied with gentle activities, avoiding distressing situations. A
moderate amount of exercise and a good balanced diet are important too.
Sometimes tranquilisers are prescribed to avoid fretful nights.
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