Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia that affects the brain. It is a progressive disease, which means that it gets worse over time. Alzheimer’s disease can affect different people in different ways, but most patients have common symptoms. This article will discuss how Alzheimer’s Disease affects the body and some common symptoms associated with it. Whether your loved one is currently living with Alzheimer’s Disease or you are caring for someone who has recently received a diagnosis, it is crucial to understand how the disease affects the body.
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Loss Of Balance
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neuro-degenerative disorder that affects cognitive function and memory. One of the ways it manifests in the body is through a loss of balance. This can make everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs more difficult and dangerous. The loss of balance is due to a deterioration of the parts of the brain that control movement and coordination.
As the disease progresses, these symptoms become more pronounced and can lead to falls and other accidents. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, treatments can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. As a result, people with Alzheimer’s can continue to live active and fulfilling lives with proper care and support.
Uncontrollable Twitching
For many people, the first sign of Alzheimer’s Disease is a subtle change in their ability to remember things. However, the physical manifestations of the disease can be just as dramatic. One of the most common and noticeable symptoms is uncontrolled twitching. This can affect any muscle in the body, from the eyelid to the tongue to the limbs. The twitching may be intermittent at first, but it can eventually become constant and quite severe.
In addition to being physically uncomfortable, the twitching can also be very disconcerting for both the person with Alzheimer’s and their loved ones. Fortunately, medications can help to lessen the severity of the symptoms, including twitching.
Weakened Immune System
As mentioned before, Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disorder that damages and eventually kills brain cells. This damage can lead to a decline in cognitive function, and the loss of cell function can also affect other systems in the body, including the immune system. A weakened immune system can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection, and it can also make Alzheimer’s symptoms worse.
In particular, inflammation is a common symptom of Alzheimer’s, and a weakened immune system can make this inflammation more severe. As a result, it’s essential for people with Alzheimer’s to take steps to maintain a strong immune system. This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. Additionally, people with Alzheimer’s should talk to their doctor about any immunizations they may need to help protect against infections.
Stiff Muscles
As you age, your muscles naturally become stiffer and less responsive. For most people, this is simply a sign of the aging process. However, for those with Alzheimer’s Disease, muscle stiffness can be much more pronounced and can cause a number of serious problems. In addition to making it difficult to move around, stiffness can also lead to pain and muscle cramps. In severe cases, it can even cause seizures.
While this symptom is next to impossible to avoid, some treatments can help to ease the symptoms of muscle stiffness. Physical therapy, massage, and certain medications can all help to improve flexibility and range of motion. As a result, patients with Alzheimer’s can often still enjoy a good quality of life despite the effects of the disease on their bodies.
Loss Of Bladder Control
One of the most common and often distressing symptoms of Alzheimer’s is a loss of bladder control. This can result from damage to the brain regions that control urination. In addition, Alzheimer’s can lead to muscle weakness, making it difficult to hold in urine. As a result, people with Alzheimer’s often need to use incontinence pads or diapers to manage their condition.
Although it is a common symptom, loss of bladder control can be very distressing for both patients and caregivers. Fortunately, treatments available can help manage this symptom and improve the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer’s Disease.
Difficulty Swallowing Food
Another one of the many ways Alzheimer’s Disease can affect your body is by making it difficult to swallow food. This can happen for several reasons. First, the disease can cause damage to the muscles and nerves that are responsible for swallowing. Also, Alzheimer’s can lead to changes in the tongue’s size and shape, making it difficult to move food around in the mouth.
Finally, the disease can cause changes in the throat, making it narrower and more inflamed. As a result, swallowing can become painful and difficult. If you or a loved one is experiencing difficulty swallowing, it is crucial to see a doctor immediately as it could be a sign of Alzheimer’s Disease.
Extreme Fatigue
Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating condition that can profoundly impact every aspect of your life. Sadly, one common symptom of Alzheimer’s is extreme fatigue. This can make it difficult to perform even simple tasks and can often lead to feelings of frustration and hopelessness. The fatigue associated with Alzheimer’s is due to a number of factors, including the build-up of plaques and tangles in the brain, the loss of neurons, and changes in neurotransmitter levels.
Treatments for Alzheimer’s are progressing, but there is still not a lot of help for people suffering from this disease. In the meantime, managing fatigue can be one of the best ways to help improve your quality of life.
Alzheimer’s Affects More Than Just The Mind
Alzheimer’s disease is a serious condition that affects not only the mind but also the body. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s can range from mild to severe and can significantly impact your quality of life. If you or a loved one is experiencing any of the symptoms discussed in this article, it is vital to see a doctor right away. With early diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to manage the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and improve your quality of life.
