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Serious severity
· Neurology
Alzheimer's Disease
Memory loss dementia · Plaque & tangle disease
Abnormal protein plaques and tangles slowly destroy brain cells. New drugs slow progression in early stages; lifestyle reduces risk dramatically.
At a glance
- Prevalence
- Over 6 million Indians
- Typical age
- 65+ years usually
- Outlook
- Progressive, supportive care
- System
- Brain
Reviewed by a practising neurology doctor
What causes it
Causes
- Age and genetics (APOE-e4)
- Cardiovascular risk factors
- Head injuries
- Low education, social isolation
- Hearing loss
How it feels
Symptoms & effects
- Short-term memory loss
- Difficulty finding words
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Personality changes
- Loss of independence (late)
How it’s treated
Treatment & cure
- Cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil)
- Memantine in moderate disease
- Anti-amyloid antibodies (early)
- Behavioural support, carer training
- Treat associated depression
Staying ahead
Prevention
- Manage BP, sugar, lipids midlife
- Stay socially and mentally active
- Treat hearing loss with aids
- Sleep 7–8 hours
- Mediterranean / MIND diet
Do’s
- Establish routines and visual reminders
- Manage cardiovascular risk
- Join a memory support group
- Plan finances and care early
Don’ts
- Argue or correct repeatedly
- Isolate the person socially
- Skip annual cognitive review
- Stop driving abruptly without alternatives
See a doctor immediately if
Symptoms are sudden or severe, getting worse despite home care, or interfering with sleep, work or daily life. Don’t self-diagnose from the internet — book a verified clinician below.
Top specialists
See all neurology doctors Top 4 doctors for Alzheimer's Disease
Ranked by patient rating, years of experience and review volume. All verified by MediConsult’s clinical team.
NF
2
HB
3
SJ
4
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Disclaimer ·
This article is educational and reviewed by clinicians, but it cannot replace an in-person assessment.
Medication doses, prevention advice and treatment choices vary by person. Always confirm with a doctor before acting on anything here.