How Alzheimer’s starts?

Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease that results in symptoms like memory loss, difficulty in thinking, mood, and personality changes. At present, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, and there aren’t any available treatments that slow or stop its progression.

Physical changes in the brain begin long before symptoms start. Because Alzheimer’s is progressive and without a cure or viable treatment beyond symptom management, beginning treatment before symptoms aren’t helpful. The rate of progression in Alzheimer’s disease varies from person to person but typically follows a pattern of particular symptoms and physical changes in the brain.

In the earliest stage of Alzheimer’s, the person with the disease can function and live independently. They may begin to notice memory problems, like forgetting common words or where objects they use are located. To others, symptoms may or may not be apparent at this stage of the disease, although those closest may begin to notice some difficulties, including:

• Trouble remembering names when meeting new people
• Problems coming up with the right word
• Forgetting where objects are placed
• Difficulty in social or work situations
• Trouble planning and organizing

Alzheimer’s begins when certain proteins in the brain collect in specific ways and places that interrupt cells and parts of the brain to communicate with one another. These proteins form what scientists call plaques and tangles. At the beginning stages, plaques and tangles form in the portions of the brain involved in learning, memory, thinking, and planning. As these proteins form and interrupt the health and function of cells, brain cells die. Over the course of Alzheimer’s disease, this cell death results in atrophy or shrinking of brain mass that eventually leads to an inability to live independently in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

While Alzheimer’s is a disease that is still being researched, and there is much to learn, scientists recommend that certain lifestyle choices be made to encourage healthy aging, which may prevent the many health complications of aging, including Alzheimer’s. While aging doesn’t cause Alzheimer’s, most people diagnosed with it are over 65, and risk increases as age increases. Some of the recommended lifestyle changes are getting plenty of sleep, eating a nutritious diet, getting regular exercise, and making choices that reduce developing type 2 diabetes.

If you or a loved one are struggling with symptoms of Alzheimer’s, talk with your doctor or theirs for guidance. You can contact the Alzheimer’s Helpline at 1-800-272-3900 for 24/7 support and resources.