Some studies show that low levels of a B vitamin, folate, can triple the risk of dementia, yet other studies show vitamin B supplementation does not slow mental decline. Whether it’s ordinary vitamins, ginkgo biloba, omega-3 fatty acids, or coenzyme Q10: there is very little conclusive evidence that these substances can delay or alleviate the symptoms of dementia.įor example, research is contradictory when it comes to vitamin supplements. Many products on the market claim they can help sharpen mental abilities or work against memory loss. "Still, in the past ten years, huge strides in understanding the biochemistry and pathophysiology of Alzheimer's have been made," he adds. "These medications are not a cure and not a home run, but they can set back the clock," says Dr. These drugs include cholinesterase inhibitors, which prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, and memantine, which controls glutamate.īoth types of drugs help regulate brain chemicals important to learning and memory, but may not work in all patients, and do not reverse the progressive brain damage characteristic of Alzheimer's. There are currently a variety of drugs on the market that can help slow the progression of the disease process. While scientists don’t know for certain, most believe plaques and tangles block communication between the cells. Plaques, or deposits between nerve cells, and tangles, twisted bundles of protein fibers, eventually kill nerve cells in brains affected by Alzheimer's. In Alzheimer's specifically, research shows a loss of nerve cells in memory centers. Currently, more than 5 million Americans have Alzheimer's. Alzheimer’s DiseaseĪccording to researchers, dementias are increasing in incidence as the population ages. Unfortunately, Alzheimer's is a fatal, long-term disease that gradually robs an individual of reason, independence, and physical ability. Brain scans and blood tests may rule out other causes of memory loss. Stephens.Ī doctor conducts basic memory tests, or more in-depth assessments, such as a neuro-psychological evaluation. "Dementia is still primarily a clinical diagnosis, and there is no blood test or scan result that confirms the diagnosis," according to Dr. Diagnosisįamily members or friends may notice a change in their loved one's functioning and behavior, and bring them in for an evaluation. When memory loss happens with a general loss of other intellectual abilities, such as judgment and abstract thinking, and these worsen over time, a brain disorder such as Alzheimer's may be the problem. However, if you become unable to manage a budget, misplace something and are unable to retrace your steps to find it, or completely lose track of the date or season - and these things interfere with your daily life - you may have a more serious problem. Typical memory problems as you grow older may include paying a bill late, losing things from time to time, or forgetting what day it is and remembering later. Frequently, people who have the disease are not aware of it. There are many types of dementias, with Alzheimer's being the most common. As you get older, you begin to lose brain cells and your body starts to make less of the chemicals that your brain needs to work properly. These could have major interaction effects, including memory problems." Dementia ![]() ![]() ![]() Colligan stresses, "Don't forget to tell your physician what prescription medications you take, plus over-the-counter substances. It could be secondary to something else that is reversible."ĭr. "Overall," she says, "if memory seems to be a problem, it's important to take it seriously and check with your physician. Other causes include malnutrition and side effects from medications. Some causes that can wreak havoc with memory include traumatic brain injury (even if mild), stroke, depression, thyroid problems, hormonal imbalances, vascular conditions, high blood pressure, or drug or alcohol use. "Memory loss can be due to a functional or emotional problem, or it may be a neuroanatomical issue," she says. "Memory is made up of many circuits in the brain, and dozens of causes can destroy these sensitive connections," says Susan Colligan, PhD, head of neuropsychology at John Muir Health. ![]() In many cases, this type of common forgetfulness is merely due to preoccupation, fatigue, stress, or normal aging.īut if it continues, it's important to know that other diseases or conditions may be responsible for more serious memory loss - and some can be treated. Occasionally, you may forget where you left your keys, or why you walked into a room.
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