Counting On Crossword Puzzles? What You Should Know About Alzheimer's Disease And Brain Metabolism
Alzheimer's disease—it is a terrible monster, a form of dementia that continues to affect over four million Americans each year. Most of these Americans are over the age of sixty-five; it is less common to get Alzheimer's disease as a young person and the risk increases with age.
Alzheimer's first affects the memory of those who are afflicted; such persons may have difficulties remembering recent names, events, and activities. The symptoms start out as being mild; however, as the disease progresses the symptoms become worse and more worrisome. As the disease grows worse, people with Alzheimer's may forget how to do basic tasks, such as brushing their hair or climbing the stairs—eventually, many people with Alzheimer's disease forget how to speak. Scientists are not sure about what causes Alzheimer's disease; however, recent studies have suggested that brain metabolism could play a role in Alzheimer's disease.
Causes Of Alzheimer's disease—Could Brain Metabolism Be One Of Them?
Scientists are extremely hesitant to specify what the causes of Alzheimer's disease actually are, because they themselves are not entirely sure. There are several factors that increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's; primarily, age plays a large role. Family history can also contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease. For example, for a certain type of Alzheimer's, a protein that can be inherited has been determined to be a possible cause. Thus, genetics can also determine your individual risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. Other causes might include chronic inflammation of the brain, or a head injury.
Although scientists are unsure about the causes of Alzheimer's disease, recent studies have indicated that brain metabolism could play a role. Brain metabolism can cause neurons to stop functioning, which in turn can cause a build up of molecules called oxygen free radicals. This theory concludes that the everyday functions of the brain could lead to the development of Alzheimer's.
Researchers once said that completing crossword puzzles and other mind games could help to prevent Alzheimer's. Is it time to put away the crossword puzzle in favor of this new brain metabolism theory? Don't put down the pencil just yet—the theory regarding brain metabolism is still just that—a theory. Perhaps in future years, scientists will be able to conduct more research that will expand upon this brain metabolism theory. It is only when Alzheimer's is understood that it will be possible to effectively treat this deadly disease.
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(Reuters)
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