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Alzheimer's and dementia are terms that are bandied about. Many assume that they mean the same thing. This is not the case! There are differences between the two as well as some similarities.

Dementia is a symptom. It can come about by many different causes. Alzheimer's is one of them, but dementia can also be caused by diseases such as Huntington's and Parkinson's disease. Dementia can also be caused by non-disease entities such as stroke or dehydration. Some form of dementia are curable, while others aren't.

Alzheimer's is a distinct disease entity that causes dementia. It's theorized that Alzheimer's is caused by the destruction and death of brain cells. The brain shrinks in general, but areas that affect cognitive ability and short term memory are the most affected the most. It is theorized that plaques and entanglement of dying nerve tissue causes disruption in circulation and nutrients to the brain. There is no known cure for Alzheimer's as of yet.

As with everything else, early detection and prevention is key. The earlier detected, the greater the possibility of delaying or preventing the disease from taking effect.

Learn more about this author, Cyrus Dehkan.
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