Stating that Alzheimer's disease usually manifests itself with memory loss and decreased mental skills, Neurology Specialist Dr. Lecturer. Prof. Dr. Ufuk Sandıkçı said, “This disease, which is one of the most common types of dementia, is more common in individuals aged 65 and over, but it can also occur at younger ages. Early diagnosis of Alzheimer's is critical for patient treatment.”
Neurology Specialist from VM Medical Park Samsun Hospital Dr. Lecturer. Prof. Ufuk Sandıkçı gave information about Alzheimer's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the functions of the brain, due to World Alzheimer's Awareness Month.
“Difficulties are experienced in daily life”
Stating that the most common symptom of Alzheimer's disease is forgetfulness and memory loss; especially difficulty in remembering the recent past, Dr. Lecturer. Prof. Dr. Sandıkçı said, “In addition, difficulty in performing daily routines such as shopping, cooking, personal care, loss of time and place awareness, and difficulty in recognizing people can also be seen. In the later stages of the disease, personality changes, agitation, hallucinations and mood swings, especially in the evenings, may occur. In addition, there are difficulties in skills such as planning, decision-making and maintaining a job.”
“Risk factors for Alzheimer's disease”
Stating that the exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is not yet known, but genetic factors, aging, environmental factors and lifestyle risk factors play a role in the development of the disease. Prof. Dr. Sandıkçı said, “For example, hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, lack of mental and physical activity are important risk factors. Protein deposits in the brain called 'beta amyloid plaques' and 'tau nodes' play a critical role in the development of the disease.”
Early diagnosis and available treatment methods
Stating that there is currently no definitive treatment for Alzheimer's disease, Dr. Lecturer. Prof. Dr. Sandıkçı said, “However, clinical research is promising, existing drugs and therapies alleviate symptoms and slow the rate of progression of the disease. Early diagnosis is of great importance in improving the quality of life of patients. It is also important that relatives receive education and support, as Alzheimer's is a progressive disease and in advanced stages may require 24-hour care. A conscious approach and appropriate care during the challenging process of the disease, together with regular medication use, can help improve the quality of life of patients.”
İHA Haber Kodu: 20240917AW289312