by Linda G. Hull

Created on: March 17, 2008   Last Updated: April 24, 2008

Alzheimer's Disease is a degenerative brain disorder that destroys brain cells. With the loss of vital brain cells, thinking, memory, and behavior are permanently affected. Named for Alois Alzheimer, the disease is irreversible.

According to the National Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Disease affects over five million people. Typically the disease affects people over the age of sixty-five, but people in their thirties, forties, and fifties may experience early-stage Alzheimer's Disease. Anyone who has experienced sometime memory loss fears becoming another victim because Alzheimer's Disease is not part of the normal aging process. In fact, people who are afflicted with Alzheimer's Disease may have a genetic tendency. While genetic testing is not usually recommended, if close family members have Alzheimer's Disease, there is a greater risk of developing the disease.

Diagnosis is difficult because other illnesses or medication side effects can cause Alzheimer-like dementia. Family members will most likely be the first to notice signs of memory loss, lack of concentration, and ability to perform basic tasks, since the patient is often unaware of declining abilities. A complete medical history, usually obtained from the family doctor, is an important factor in discovering the cause of dementia symptoms.

Cognitive testing using a mini-mental state examination (MMSE) by a psychologist may be recommended to determine the degree of loss. Neurological testing of the brain aids in determining the extent of brain damage and helps to rule out other brain disorders. Additionally, a brain imaging scan (MRI) can determine the presence of brain shrinkage, oftentimes an indicator of Alzheimer's Disease. Reduced brain cell activity is also an indicator, and can be determined through a PET Scan.

Since no cure is available, treatments are often limited to cognitive and behavioral symptoms. Providing for the patient's safety, comfort, and quality of life is paramount.

For cognitive symptoms, drugs such as Cholinesterase Inhibitors are used to prevent symptoms from worsening by regulating acetylcholine levels broken down by the enzyme acetylcholinesterase. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that stimulates the central nervous system. Another treatment is the use of Memantine to regulate glutamate, another neurotransmitter. Memantine is used in moderate to severe stages. As with all drugs, side effects can contribute to the discomfort of the patient.

Behavioral symptoms such

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