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Alzheimer's disease - Alzheimer's disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that usually starts slowly and worsens over time. It most often begins in people over 65.

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Cases worldwide - According to the WHO, Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60% to 70% of cases worldwide.

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Worldwide incidences of the disease - Estimates published by the WHO indicate that around 47 million people worldwide are currently suffering the condition, with 10 million new cases recorded every year.

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The onset of Alzheimer's disease -

The condition mostly affects the elderly, and early indications include forgetfulness, losing track of time, and becoming lost in familiar places.

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Early diagnosis - The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the greater the chances of reducing its progress. Recognizing the symptoms is key in managing the condition.

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What happens? -

Alzheimer's is a physical disease that affects the brain. Proteins build up in the brain to form structures called "plaques" and "tangles." This leads to the loss of connections between nerve cells, and eventually to the death of nerve cells and loss of brain tissue.

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Death rate - In the United States, the disease is the fourth biggest killer of people aged between 75 and 80 years of age, behind only heart attack, stroke, and cancer.

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Causes - The specific causes of the disease are still unknown, but those who have suffered severe head trauma appear to have a greater risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

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Causes - It is also accepted that genetic differences are responsible for 1-5% of cases.

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Other causes - Others factors that could influence the onset of Alzheimer's include cumulative aluminum exposure, infections of the brain and spinal cord, and neurochemical imbalance.

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Initial symptoms -

The most noticeable deficit is short-term memory loss, which can impact on work and social relations. Depression and irritability are also early indicators.

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Behavioral changes - In time, these behavioral problems adversely affect the suffer's personality. This can have a huge impact on family members and close friends.

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Constant care - Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease can sometimes be confused with the general aging process, which can delay treatment. Suffers require round-the-clock care.

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Early indicators - The preclinical stage of the disease has been termed mild cognitive impairment. This includes subtle problems with attentiveness, planning, abstract thinking, and memory loss.

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Middle-stage symptoms - As the disease progresses, the sufferer becomes more forgetful of recent events, people's names, and can even become disoriented in their own home. In addition, behavioral changes become more apparent.

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Late stages - The late stage of dementia is one of near total dependence and inactivity. Memory lapses are pronounced and the physical signs and symptoms become more obvious.

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Losing awareness - Late stage Alzheimer's disease is a distressing period for all concerned. Sufferers become unaware of the time and place, and experience difficulty in walking.

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Loss of reason - The behavior of those suffering Alzheimer's disease can escalate into aggression.

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Duration of illness - At this stage, the disease can progress rapidly, although to what extent depends on the individual. The Alzheimer's Association indicates that late stages of the disease usually endure for one to five years.

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Where to seek advice - After identifying the disease's early symptoms, it is vital to seek professional help as soon as possible, ideally from a neurologist and a geriatrician. The first call should be your family doctor, who can make referrals.

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Difficulty in diagnosis -

Often overlooked as general indicators of old age, the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease need to be identified as early as possible and it is vital to seek professional diagnosis immediately.

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Shame - Families of those with the disease need to be aware of the symptoms of Alzheimer's and should also consider the fact that many sufferers are reluctant to admit their condition, either through lack of awareness or shame.

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Treatment - There is no cure for Alzheimer's, but the disease can be managed effectively with the administration of some prescribed drugs and long-term care.

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Alzheimer's drugs -

Approved medications are not a cure for Alzheimer's. While they can help inhibit its progression, ultimately the benefits wear off.

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Alternative treatments - Herbal remedies, dietary supplements, and medical foods are promoted as memory enhancers or treatments to delay or prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Some sufferers have turned to these products.

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Behavioral inhibitors - Negative behavioral traits such confusion, aggression, and depression associated with the condition can be alleviated through the administration of some of these remedies. Neuroleptics can also be taken, and sufferers can benefit from therapy.

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Cognitive and behavioral therapy - Drug and non-drug treatments may help with both cognitive and behavioral symptoms, but expert medical advice should always be sought beforehand.

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Effects of medications - Drugs may be of benefit during the early stages of the disease, but their potency is limited and will in time prove ineffective.

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The most effective treatment? Love! -

Caring for someone with Alzheimer's can be frustrating, saddening, and difficult. It is important that family members and friends take time for themselves to ensure that they can be a loving carer as much as possible.

Sources: (WHO) (Alzheimer's Association)

See also: Fun ways to keep your brain young and healthy

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