Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. The damage initially appears to take place in the hippocampus (essential to forming memories). As more neurons die, other parts of the brain are affected, and they begin to shrink as well. It is a disease that all too often robs individuals of their livelihood.
Memory problems are typically the first signs of cognitive impairment related to Alzheimer’s disease. For many, decline in non-memory aspects of cognition (word-finding, vision/spatial issues, reasoning or judgement) may signal early stages of the disease.
Unfortunately, scientists don’t yet fully understand what causes Alzheimer’s disease in most people. The causes are believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. But the influence of each factor increasing or decreasing one’s risk of developing the disease may differ from person to person.
Few things are more precious than memory, and for years, thousands have suffered with watching their loved ones lose themselves to the raves of Alzheimer’s disease. Thankfully, advancements are being made and a solution to the disease is on the horizon.
A protein has recently been discovered which causes memory impairment when it builds in the blood and brain. Researches have found a way to block the production of this protein, preventing the eventual loss of memory. Recent discoveries led scientists to theorize that blood plasma is the key to curing many age-based ailments.
While these discoveries are still new it is certainly a glimmer of hope for good things to come. Tests will be continued to see what types of treatments can stand to benefit from this discovery. To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and the recent discovery, check out this video below.
Alzheimer’s Disease: What Is It And How Do We Slow It? from Michael Chin on Vimeo.
