Alzheimer's Disease: Autumn in the World of the Mind
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disease in which nerve cells gradually die and the connections between them are disrupted. Memory for recent events is affected first, followed by thinking, speech, orientation and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia in older age, so it is often mistaken for normal aging.
In brief
- First signs: a person forgets what was just said, repeats the same questions, gets lost in familiar places, and cannot manage routine tasks such as paying bills.
- It differs from ordinary forgetfulness in that the forgotten information does not come back even with a prompt, and the mistakes interfere with daily life and multiply over time.
- People with such changes see a neurologist, who will assess memory and thinking and, if needed, order tests.
- Do not put off a visit if a loved one has started confusing days, names and the way home, or has changed sharply in character. The earlier treatment is started, the longer independence may be preserved.
At CSM Clinic in Kyiv, appointments are held by a neurologist, who will assess the condition, select therapy that may slow the manifestations of the disease and help the family organize care.
One of the most common unhealthy conditions of our time is dementia. This is a broad medical term that covers a number of neurodegenerative brain disorders manifested by impaired mental abilities and functioning. One of the most clearly expressed forms of dementia is Alzheimer's disease.
Statistical, analytical and expert data from the World Health Organization (WHO) point to a marked trend in the spread of dementia. Alzheimer's is called the problem and challenge of the century.
Research into the Mechanisms of Alzheimer's Disease
In light of these alarming statistics and expert statements, active scientific research on the disease is under way around the world, aimed at finding alternative and innovative ways to combat it.
Alzheimer's is a degenerative brain disease that progresses intensively and whose consequences are:
- loss of mental functions and memory;
- thinking and speech disorders;
- changes in personality, emotional state and behavior;
- disorientation in time and space.
Alzheimer's, the cause of which has still not been fully established, is a life-threatening condition. The person gradually loses control over their actions, which can lead to irreversible consequences.
The basis for the development of the disorder is formed by several genetic, neurobiological, psychosocial and environmental factors. Age-related degeneration of the brain and cognitive functions acts as a trigger.
In the early stages, the symptoms of Alzheimer's may be minor and seem harmless:
- impaired short-term memory;
- difficulty forming phrases and sentences;
- illogical thinking and conclusions;
- impaired coordination and mobility.
Over time, each of the symptoms becomes more pronounced, and the person needs more and more help with simple daily tasks. In the final (severe) stage, the person loses independence, becomes fully dependent and needs round-the-clock care. They may completely lose memory, the ability to communicate and the ability to recognize loved ones.
Alzheimer's is a disease that requires a special comprehensive approach to examination and treatment and the use of modern methods and research. In Ukraine, one such medical facility is the CSM Clinic in Kyiv.
CSM: Building a New Life with Alzheimer's
CSM keeps up with the times. A neurologist in Kyiv and other experienced specialists use modern approaches to serious conditions of our time such as dementia, Alzheimer's and others.
Diagnosis of Alzheimer's at CSM is a set of clinical assessments, instrumental methods with biomarkers, psychological, cognitive and genetic tests aimed at detecting the disease and establishing a diagnosis in the early stages.
Treatment of Alzheimer's at CSM is an even broader set of measures using various modern medical therapies, practices and stimulation, aimed at slowing the progression of the disorder and preserving, as far as possible, an active life position for patients.
CSM works carefully, like a jeweler, to understand complex disorders and to help people with significant impairments adapt to a new way of life.
Read also
Book an appointment: Neurologist consultation in Kyiv