Health for Self Newsletter

Alzheimer’s disease is the fourth most common cause of death in the U.S.  A family history and Down’s Syndrome are risk factors for the disease but the cause is widely unkown.

Alzheimer’s is a clinical diagnosis, meaning, we do not have a true quantitative test.  The diagnosis is made clinically and qualitative based upon observation of the patient and from their history.  CT or MRI scans often show what is known as cortical atrophy in Alzheimer’s patients brain.  It is known that amyloid beta-protein and neurofibrillary tangles play a role in the disease.

Patients typically present with mild forgetfulness, inability to learn new material, and even changes in personality.  As the disease progresses, memory becomes very impaired.  Patients may begin to get lost in common surroundings (their own home or town).  Eventually, the patient may no longer recognize their friends and relatives and become dependent on others for their care.

Patients with Alzheimer’s have lower levels of acetylcholine in their brain. Thus, patients are often treated with acetyl-choline esterase inhibitors such as donepezil which increase the level of acetyl-choline.  Patients should AVOID anticholinergic medications.  Supplements such as ginkgo and lecithin have not been proven in a clinical trial to be effective.   One study in the past suggested large doses of vitamin E slowed the progression of Alzheimer’s (Click here for the study).  However, more recent literature has suggested vitamin E does not play a strong role in slowing disease progression  (click here and here for the studies).  In terms of prevention, there is no literature which proves that any intervention can prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s.

For the newest clinical trials regarding Alzheimer’s Disease, you can visit Clinicaltrials.gov.

For futher information regarding prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, please contact your physician.