Causes and Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease

This disease involves the parts of the brain which control thought, memory and language. Research is ongoing and although much has already been done neither the medical profession nor the scientists know the cause of this disease. So far, no cure has been found.

Signs and Symptoms

• Slow onset.
• Mild forgetfulness, patients may have difficulty in remembering recent events, the names of people they know - even their family members.
• Patients may not be able to solve simple problems or do simple sums which may cause minor difficulties. However, it's not usually serious enough to cause alarm.
• Most people will not suspect anything is wrong at this stage.
• The person may begin to forget how to do simple tasks such as combing their hair or cleaning their teeth.
• They can't seem to think clearly.
• They may ask the same question repeatedly, or repeat an activity, such as washing their hands, because they have forgotten they have asked the question or washed their hands already.
• Problems arise with speaking, reading, writing and understanding.
• As the disease develops the changes are more pronounced and more easily noticed. At this stage either the person or a family member, on their behalf, will seek medical advice.
• As time passes the person may become anxious, agitated, aggressive, suffer with insomnia and depression.
• They may become wanderers - going out and getting lost.
• Eventually they will need total care.

What Causes Alzheimer's Disease?

The cause is unknown at present but there are several factors which may be contributory.

Age

• The risk factor increases in people over 65.
• As people reach their seventies and eighties the risk factor increases. This is known as 'late onset Alzheimer's disease'.

Family History

There is a rare form of Alzheimer's which is familial. It usually occurs between the ages of 30 and 60 years of age and is inherited. This has led scientists to believe genetics may play a role in some cases. However, the more common form which occurs later in life shows no sign of being inherited.