Alzheimer’s Disease Explained: Prevention, Diagnosis, and the Latest Treatment Options

Alzheimer’s disease is a heartbreaking disease. Thankfully, there are more research discoveries being made, making prevention and effective treatment more possible.

In this video, Dr. Gary Kaplan explains:

• What is Alzheimer’s and dementia
• Different types of dementia
• Who is more likely to get diagnosed with Alzheimer’s
• Alzheimer’s symptoms
• How far ahead Alzheimer’s can be detected
• What tests and diagnostics are available to detect Alzheimer’s
• Lifestyle risks and how Alzheimer’s can be prevented
• The latest treatments are available for Alzheimer’s and the science behind them
• Long-term support needs and support for Alzheimer’s patients

What Causes Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s occurs when synapses in the brain’s neurons, its nerve cells, are destroyed by amyloid plaques, along with “tangles” in the cells that lead to loss of brain function. This leads to the progressive deterioration of memory and can cause behavioral issues like aggression, hallucinations, delusion or daily activities such as conversation.

However, Alzheimer’s and cognitive decline are not sudden events. More and more studies show that they are the result of years of biological change, often involving inflammation, immune activation, vascular dysfunction, and metabolic stress.

Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia

• Diabetes:  Alzheimer’s disease is sometimes called “type 3 diabetes,” as type 2 diabetes and prediabetes are strongly linked to Alzheimer’s due to insulin resistance. Excess sugar consumption causes the pancreas to outpour insulin, which creates insulin resistance. Insulin is critical for brain function, and the elevated sugar levels damages blood vessels and impairs the brain, kidneys, eyes and peripheral nerves. The good news is diabetes is a preventable risk factor for dementia.
• Environmental Factors: Preventable, environmental factors also contribute to an increased chance of developing Alzheimer’s, such as:
  • Heavy metals (cadmium, arsenic, lead, mercury, manganese). These can be from contaminated food, water, pollution, pesticides
  • Mold (damages the nervous system), which can be found in water-damaged buildings
• Other Factors:
  • Recurrent traumatic brain injury (concussions)
  • Infections like Lyme disease and syphilis
  • Excess alcohol and drugs
  • Prolonged general anesthesia
  • Sleep apnea
  • Genetics: There are several genes that can predispose to Alzheimer’s, such as the ApoE4. However, having a particular gene doesn’t mean it will be expressed. Lifestyle factors can help determine how genes are expressed. Continue reading about Alzheimer’s Disease & Cognitive Decline →