Causes

It's still unclear what specifically causes Alzheimer's disease. On a fundamental level, however, it is caused due to brain proteins not functioning normally. This disturbs the function of brain cells, commonly known as neurons, and sets off a chain of events. Neurons become injured, lose their connections, and ultimately die. This is often due to a mix of factors:

• Age (most common after 65)
• Family history or genetic predisposition
• Accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques
• Formation of neurofibrillary tangles (irregular clusters of twisted protein fibers inside neurons)
• Head trauma or repeated concussions
• Cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes and insulin resistance
• Chronic inflammation in the brain

When to Seek Medical Care

If you or a loved one begins showing signs of memory loss, confusion, or difficulty with language and daily tasks, then it's important to consult a doctor immediately and seek Alzheimer's Disease treatment. Early assessment can help rule out other causes and start the appropriate treatment for Alzheimer's Disease. Don’t wait until symptoms become severe to seek help.

Complications Associated

Alzheimer’s affects more than just memory — it can lead to serious complications that impact physical health, safety, and overall well-being. Complications may include:

• Malnutrition and Dehydration: As the disease progresses, individuals may forget to eat or lose interest in food altogether. They may also have difficulty swallowing, increasing the risk of dehydration and weight loss.
• Falls and Injuries: Loss of coordination and poor balance raise the risk of falling. Falls can result in fractures or head injuries, which may worsen the overall condition.
• Wandering and Getting Lost: Confusion with time and place can lead to wandering, putting individuals at risk of getting lost, especially in unfamiliar or crowded environments.
• Communication Difficulties: As verbal skills decline, expressing needs or understanding others becomes difficult, which may lead to social isolation.
• Inability to Perform Daily Activities: In advanced stages, patients may be unable to bathe, dress, or feed themselves, requiring round-the-clock support.

Diagnosis

Early and accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is essential for treatment planning and management. No single test confirms the disease, but a combination of evaluations is used; Our doctors at Felix Hospital are the best doctor for Alzheimers in Noida. After accessing your medical history and performing physical exam to rule out other causes, they may suggest one of the following tests:

• Neuropsychological testing to evaluate memory, problem-solving, attention, and language issues.
• Brain imaging (MRI or CT scan) to detect shrinkage, atrophy, or structural abnormalities in the brain.
• PET scan (Amyloid or FDG PET) to visualize amyloid plaques and glucose metabolism in the brain.
• Blood tests to rule out conditions like thyroid dysfunction or vitamin B12 deficiency, which may be causing the symptoms.
• CSF analysis (lumbar puncture) is done to measure amyloid-beta and tau protein levels in the spinal fluid.

Treatment

While there’s no cure, Alzheimer's disease treatment can help slow progression of the symptoms and improve quality of life. The treatment approach includes medications, supportive therapies, and sometimes surgery for coexisting conditions. At Felix Hospital, our Alzheimer Specialist in Noida, will provide treatments that include:

• Cholinesterase Inhibitors: These medicines help to boost levels of acetylcholine, a chemical important for memory and learning, helping to manage mild to moderate symptoms.
• NMDA Receptor Antagonists: These medicines are used to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer’s. It regulates glutamate activity to improve memory and attention.
• Combination Therapy: A combination of drugs may be used to offer better symptom control in some people by managing different pathways of brain function.
• Antidepressants, Antipsychotics, and Mood Stabilizers: These are used to manage the related behavioral problems like depression, anxiety, aggression, or insomnia.

Surgical Treatments

There are no direct surgical treatments for Alzheimer’s, but certain procedures may help manage associated complications.

Therapy or Lifestyle Modification

Supportive therapies and lifestyle changes can ease symptoms and help maintain independence. These include:

Cognitive stimulation treatment (CST) is a common method for keeping someone's mind busy. It involves organizing themed activity sessions over several weeks.

Cognitive rehabilitation is skill training that is specific to a person's requirements and abilities. It can help a person maintain their cognitive abilities, achieve their goals, and manage more effectively with dementia symptoms.

Cognitive behavioral treatment (CBT) may be suggested if the patient experiences depression or anxiety. It is most effective during the early stages of Alzheimer's disease.

Occupational therapies help to adapt the home environment to the special needs of the patient and teaches them strategies for safe and easy daily living.

A heart-healthy diet (Mediterranean or DASH diet) may help reduce the risk or slow disease progression.

Maintaining routine and familiar settings can help reduce confusion and anxiety.

Music, art, and pet therapy help to manage emotions and improve mood in many patients.

A fixed sleep schedule helps to get better rest and reduces nighttime confusion.

Prevention

Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent Alzheimer’s, certain habits may reduce risk or delay onset:

• Stay mentally active through reading, puzzles, or learning new skills
• Engage in regular physical exercise
• Maintain strong social connections
• Follow a balanced, heart-friendly diet
• Manage chronic conditions like blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol use
• Protect your head from injury
• Get regular sleep