How alzheimer’s affects the body?

When we discuss Alzheimer’s disease, the most common associations are about the cognitive effects that impair the patient’s ability to function. Although these cognitive deficiencies are important, other physical effects can cause significant issues. The speed and intensity of the physical symptoms vary with each patient. It has been recorded that patients have experienced physical changes in as little as 4 years and for others longer than 15 years. 

What can occur:

*Loss of balance and coordination

The part of the brain that controls body movements is the cerebellum. Posterior cortical atrophy is a form of Alzheimer’s disease known to target the cerebellum and negatively affects balance. A patient with posterior cortical atrophy can have difficulty determining which direction is up. This can lead to dizziness. Patients may also tend to lean to one side. Loss of balance and coordination usually occurs in the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease.

*Gait changes

In the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, many people can continue to walk normally. They may even be able to walk long distances without any impact. Changes to a patient’s gait have been noted to occur as the disease progresses and can result in shuffling or dragging feet.

*Weak or stiff muscles

In the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease, patients may begin to encounter issues with weak or stiff muscles. This can result in difficulty with movement and trouble standing or sitting in a chair. These effects can result from poor nutrition, reduced exercise and activity, and brain shrinkage and deterioration.

* Fatigue and sleep disturbances

A patient with Alzheimer’s disease may experience a variety of sleep disturbances. Some patients will have difficulty achieving sleep, and for others, they will experience increased sleepiness. Fatigue can result from both a lack of sleep and also excessive sleep. Patients are more at risk for injury when they have not had adequate rest.

*Difficulty controlling bladder and bowels

Since Alzheimer’s disease affects the brain, it can affect the brain's signals to other parts of the body. This can result in incontinence. Patients may not receive the signal from the brain that triggers the sensation to use the toilet. Other factors that play a role are forgetting where the toilet is located, mobility issues, and disorientation.