World Alzheimer Day: A Day To Educate, Raise Awareness, And Help Those Affected

World Alzheimer's Day

Alzheimer's is a progressive, irreversible brain disease that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills. It starts with short-term memory loss and gradually leads to problems with language, decision-making, understanding visual images and everyday tasks such as paying bills or driving. September 21st is celebrated as World Alzheimer’s Day. This day is dedicated to educating, raising awareness and helping those affected by Alzheimer's. Learning about the disease is the first step in prevention and treatment.

The number of people living with Dementia in India is expected to touch 7.6 million within the next ten years, according to a report released by the World Health Organization (WHO). Dementia is an umbrella term used for several diseases that affect memory, thinking and social abilities to interfere with daily life. It is not a specific disease but a collective term for memory loss syndrome, which may include Alzheimer's as well. Globally, 55 million people are living with dementia today, which is expected to increase twofold every 20 years if it is not curbed. Manipal Hospitals is a trusted name for Alzheimer's disease treatment in Patiala. Book an appointment now as we have the best Alzheimer’s disease doctors in Patiala, who can guide you well about the treatment options. 

What is Alzheimer's Disease?

Alzheimer's disease is a neurological condition causing gradual shrinkage of the brain and death of brain cells. Alzheimer's is one of the leading causes of dementia.

Alzheimer's Symptoms and Signs

From forgetting recent memories to developing severe memory impairment and loss of the ability to carry out everyday tasks. The symptoms of Alzheimer's disease vary from person to person. They generally include: 

• Memory loss that worsens over time.

• Problems with language.

• Poor sense of judgment.

• Forgetting the names of loved ones.

• Loss of initiative

• Difficulty thinking clearly.

• Difficulty performing routine tasks.

• Dramatic changes in mood or behaviour.

• Inability to see or hear well.

There are currently no treatments that can cure Alzheimer's disease. However, medications can help manage some of its symptoms. Visit the top multi-speciality hospital in Patiala to get the finest treatment. 

What are the causes of Alzheimer's disease?

The exact causes of Alzheimer's disease are unknown, but it tends to be an age-related disease. The primary cause of Alzheimer's appears to be a buildup of plaques in the brain. These plaques contain proteins responsible for the communication between brain cells (neurons). When these proteins fail to function normally, they disrupt the work of neurons and trigger a series of toxic events that eventually lead to nerve cell (neuron) death.

Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s Disease

Some of the risk factors for Alzheimer's disease include:

• High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can damage blood vessels in the brain, which may increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

• High Cholesterol

High cholesterol can also damage blood vessels in the brain.

• Age

The risk of developing Alzheimer's disease increases with age.

• Family History

If you have a family history of Alzheimer's disease, you are more likely to develop the disease.

• Head Injury

People who have had a head injury are more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease.

• Diabetes

Diabetes can damage blood vessels in the brain.

• Smoking

Smoking can damage blood vessels in the brain.

• Obesity

Obesity can damage blood vessels in the brain.

• Lack of Physical Activity

Physical activity helps to keep blood vessels healthy, so lack of physical activity may increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

• Depression

Depression can be a sign of Alzheimer's disease, or it can be a risk factor for the disease.

• Sleep Deprivation

Prolonged sleep deprivation can lead to damage to brain cells which might contribute to the development of Alzheimer's. 

Care tips to prevent Alzheimer's

• Vitamin supplements can help maintain the body and prevent the ill effects of plaque deposition.

• Lifestyle modifications like regular exercise and good diet habits.

• Social interactions 

• Good rest and a proper sleep schedule.

• Creative work 

• Routine check-ups with the doctor.

Manipal Hospitals, Patiala, offers the best care for managing Alzheimer's. We are here with a team of neurologists, psychiatrists, neuropsychologists and other experts who chart out the best treatment course for the patients. Manipal Hospitals is considered the best neurology hospital in Patiala with all the modern facilities- for diagnosis and treatment like EEG, Nerve Conduction Study, EMG, Lumbar Puncture, Stroke Management, Neuro Intensive Care, Memory Clinic, Paediatric Neurology Services and more. 

As of now, there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s,  all we can do is treat the symptoms of the disease and help the patient lead a normal life. To help those affected by Alzheimer's, we must seek timely medical support from the best neurology doctor in Patiala.