
ALZHEIMER DEMENTIA SYNDROME

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Alzheimer Dementia Syndrome
Alzheimer's dementia syndrome, colloquially known as Alzheimer's for short, is a type of dementia that usually affects people aged 65 and over. The slowly progressive death of nerve cells in the brain due to protein deposits leads to memory loss, confusion and disorientation.
Alzheimer Dementia Syndrome

Causes of Alzheimer dementia syndrome
Causes
The exact causes of accelerated brain deterioration in Alzheimer's dementia are not yet fully understood. Both genetic and environmental factors are thought to play a role. A family predisposition can increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Age and hereditary factors are believed to have a major influence on the likelihood of developing Alzheimer's dementia.
Deposition of plaques in the brain
Protein deposits in the brain play an important role in the development of Alzheimer's dementia. Two types of proteins have been identified, called beta-amyloid and tau. In Alzheimer's patients, these proteins are deposited in the brain in the form of plaques and fibrils. Normally these proteins are broken down. In Alzheimer's patients, this clean-up process in the brain no longer works, which inhibits the energy and oxygen supply to the brain and the nerve cells ultimately die.
Genetic predisposition
5-15% of people who develop Alzheimer's disease have a familial history. In half of these cases, Alzheimer's occurs early, before the age of 65, and is usually caused by certain changes in the genetic makeup, more specifically in the gene called ApoE (Apo-Lipoprotein E).
Risk factors that promote the disease
⎯⎯• High blood pressure
⎯⎯• Diabetes
⎯⎯• Lipid metabolism disorders
⎯⎯• Excessive alcohol consumption
Other factors that can increase the risk of Alzheimer's dementia include advanced age, female gender and certain lifestyle factors such as unhealthy diet, lack of exercise and social isolation.
Environmental influences
Environmental influences are often discussed as potential causes of Alzheimer's. There are some environmental factors that are associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's:
⎯⎯•Air pollution
Studies suggest that long-term exposure to air pollution, particularly particulate matter, may increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
⎯⎯•Harmful chemicals
Exposure to certain harmful chemicals, such as lead and mercury, has also been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease.
⎯⎯•Pesticides and herbicides
Some research suggests that exposure to pesticides and herbicides may increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
However, it is important to note that Alzheimer's is a complex disease with many factors at play. Environmental influences alone cannot reliably explain the development of Alzheimer's disease. Research in this area is still ongoing, and further studies are needed to understand the precise links between environmental factors and Alzheimer's disease.
Symptoms of Alzheimer's dementia syndrome
Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease usually develop gradually and worsen over time. The main difference from other dementias is that Alzheimer's usually affects short-term memory rather than other mental abilities. This manifests itself, for example, in repetitive questions, frequently misplacing objects, forgetting appointments or assigning names to familiar faces.
Alzheimer's disease is otherwise associated with many similar symptoms to other dementias, such as:
⎯⎯• Memory loss
⎯⎯• Problems with language
⎯⎯• Personality changes
⎯⎯• Disorientation
⎯⎯• Problems coping with tasks in daily life
⎯⎯• fears
⎯⎯• depressions
⎯⎯• sleep disorders
⎯⎯• Illusions
⎯⎯• Aggressive or inappropriate behavior
Not every person with Alzheimer's has all of these symptoms. The course of the disease can vary from person to person.
Treatment options for Alzheimer's dementia syndrome
Treatment primarily focuses on relieving symptoms and improving patients' quality of life. There is currently no cure for Alzheimer's dementia.
Treatment usually includes a combination of drug and non-drug therapy.
Medication
⎯⎯• Cholinesterase inhibitors are often prescribed to relieve cognitive symptoms
⎯⎯• Memantine can be used in combination with
Cholinesterase inhibitors may be prescribed to relieve neurological symptoms
⎯⎯• Anti-dementia medications can be used to improve memory and slow disease progression
Non-drug therapy
⎯⎯• Occupational therapy
⎯⎯• Music therapy
⎯⎯• Physiotherapy
⎯⎯• Social activities
⎯⎯• Memory training
Diet and lifestyle
A balanced diet, regular physical activity and mental stimulation can help slow the progression of the disease.
In addition, the support of relatives plays an important role in the treatment of Alzheimer's dementia. Building a safe and supportive environment, providing information and training, and social inclusion can help improve patient well-being.
It is important to note that Alzheimer's dementia is a progressive disease and that treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease rather than curing it.