Depression
With lengthy testing and studies, scientists have identified several risk factors that may contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease. One of these is depression. Studies have shown that people who suffer from depression are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease later in life. Depression can cause changes in the brain that make it more vulnerable to the damage associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Depression may also interfere with the ability of the brain to repair itself after damage has occurred. While more research is needed to confirm the link between depression and Alzheimer’s disease, it is clear that depression is a potential risk factor for developing this condition.
Head Trauma
There is also growing evidence that head trauma may be a potential cause of Alzheimer’s disease. A number of studies have shown that people who have suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s later in life. While the exact reason for this is unknown, it may be due to the damage to the brain caused by a TBI may leading to the formation of plaques and tangles, which are the hallmark features of Alzheimer’s disease.
Head trauma may also trigger inflammation and oxidative stress, damaging brain cells. While more research is needed to confirm the link between head trauma and Alzheimer’s, the available evidence suggests that TBI may be a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease.
