Alzheimer's disease -- the most common form of
dementia among older people -- initially involves the parts of the brain that control a person's thought process, memory, and language. People with the condition typically show signs of memory loss, confusion, and impaired judgment. Other symptoms can include restlessness, a deterioration of language skills, and mood swings. In most cases, the brain tissue of someone with Alzheimer's disease contains abnormal protein clumps and tangled bundles of fibers. The exact reasons why these abnormalities occur, however, are still unknown. Medications are available to help treat symptoms, but as of yet, there is no cure.
(Click Alzheimer's disease for more information on the condition, including statistics on how many people it affects, brain changes seen in people with the disease, and potential risk factors.)
HealthSavvy Sign In
|