The stages of Alzheimer’s disease are well documented. Yet, the origin and causes are shrouded in mystery.
Scientists don’t fully comprehend the exact causes of Alzheimer’s disease. However, it is clear that something in the brain causes the disease. This is not something that happens overnight, it takes years for this to happen.
What are the Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease?
When you are beginning to show signs of Alzheimer’s disease, scientists believe that you have already had the illness for up to a decade or more. During that time, changes were already occurring in your brain, and you never realized it. By the time you are diagnosed, your brain has long been affected.
Here is a list of the well known stages of Alzheimer’s disease:
• Early Symptoms – Memory loss is usually one of the initial indicators that something isn’t right with the brain. Doctors call this mild cognitive impairment, or MCI.
This is when people begin to develop more memory problems than the average people of their age. Although MCI is a signal that the brain might not be functioning properly, it’s not at a stage where it is considered Alzheimer’s disease.
It is during this time that sufferers begin to lose their sense of smell. For this reason, a research department at the University of Florida have developed a smell test with peanut butter for those with Alzheimer’s disease. They know for a fact that this test can be used to diagnose people who already have Alzheimer’s disease. However, they are now investigating if people showing mild cognitive impairment will also develop Alzheimer’s with this smell test.
• Light Stage – This is when an Alzheimer’s sufferer starts getting lost and forgetful. They cannot look after their finances properly, and if they are on medication, they will also forget to take it. This is the stage where most doctors detect the disease.
• Moderate Stage – During the moderate or medium stage, the areas of the brain that control language is affected. People become more confused, and it is usually the stage where people begin forgetting family and friends. They might start having paranoia and hallucinations. It will be difficult for them to dress and groom themselves, too. This is a stage where many need assisted living care.
• Final Stage – This is the severe or final stage where plaque is found throughout the brain. Brain cells are shrinking, and patients are totally dependent on others. During this final stage, they will spend a lot of time in bed, and it might be difficult for them to swallow and they will forget that food is in their mouth when they are eating. The organs in the body start shutting down and death will follow.
Stages of Alzheimer’s – Conclusion
Scientists are continuing to check bio markers as an indication if someone might develop Alzheimer’s in the future. They are looking to see if there is a relationship between genes and Alzheimer’s. Doctors are monitoring people with mild cognitive impairment, too.
If you or a loved one has early stages of Alzheimer’s, it’s an opportune time to see a doctor so you can start early treatment. Those who begin treatment during the early stages of Alzheimer’s, generally have the best results.
