Where does Alzheimer’s start?

Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease that results in dementia. Commonly associated with memory difficulties, Alzheimer’s has many symptoms that impact patients. People with Alzheimer’s may experience:

• Memory difficulties like losing objects without the ability to retrace steps to find them, forget events or appointments, repeat statements and questions, becoming lost in familiar places, having difficulty finding the right words, or forgetting the names of people they know
• Thinking issues like difficulty concentrating and problems with numbers and personal finances
• Problems with judgment like making choices that are out of character or having trouble choosing to clothe appropriately to the season or weather
• Changes in behavior and personality are reflected by mood swings, social isolation, depression, irritability, and delusions.

Alzheimer’s is thought to be in the brain, destroying neurons or brain cells long before symptoms appear. The first symptoms in the earliest stage of Alzheimer’s are typically memory-related. The first part of the brain to be impacted by the disease is the area associated with memory and learning. As the disease spreads through the brain, symptoms become more severe, and further functionality is lost.

At present, scientists believe that Alzheimer’s causes a buildup of proteins in certain areas of the brain that prevent nutrients from getting into neurons. These also disrupt communication between the cells of the brain. As this buildup of proteins occurs, it results in the death of brain cells and eventually the atrophy or shrinking of the brain’s mass.

Researchers are not entirely sure of the causes of the condition but believe that a combination of lifestyle factors, environment, and genetics play a role in its development. Treatments are centered on managing symptoms, but there are no treatments that stop or slow the progression of Alzheimer’s. Preventative lifestyle changes are usually recommended and promote healthy aging and prevent cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Some of these include getting adequate sleep, eating a nutritious diet, and getting enough exercise.

If you or someone you know are showing symptoms of Alzheimer’s, talk with your doctor or theirs. Your doctor can evaluate your symptoms and determine if another cause may be responsible for symptoms or refer you to a specialist to evaluate and manage Alzheimer’s symptoms. You can reach out to the Alzheimer’s helpline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at 1-800-272-3900.