Alzheimer's Disease
Alternate Names : Organic Brain Syndrome
What can be done to prevent the disease?
Although there are no proven methods to prevent Alzheimer's disease, recent
research findings provide some options that may slow the onset of the disease
or the progression of symptoms. These findings, which need further study,
include:
low doses of aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs),
which may work by making blood cells and vessels less sticky and improving
blood flow
actively engaging in cognitive activities such as reading, which may
increase the nerve connections in the brain and delay the onset of the
disease
taking antioxidants such as Vitamin
E and selignine. In the Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study, a dose of
1,000 IU of vitamin E and 5 mg of selignine twice daily delayed nursing home
placement, loss of the ability to perform self care, and severe dementia.
hormone replacement therapy for
menopausal women, which may delay the
onset of symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. The relationship between the hormone
estrogen and Alzheimer's disease still
needs further investigation.
avoiding head injuries. A person should wear a seatbelt at all times when
riding in a motor vehicle. Sports safety guidelines for children,
adolescents, and adults can be
helpful in avoiding other head injuries.
What are the long-term effects of the disease?
There is no cure for Alzheimer's disease. The disease is progressive. The
symptoms get worse as the disease progresses. From the time the disease is
recognized until the person dies is generally about 6 to 8 years, although it can
range from less than 2 years to over 20 years.
What are the risks to others?
Alzheimer's disease is not contagious and poses no risk to others.
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