Introduction

Alzheimer disease is a form of dementia that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common form of dementia and typically affects older adults. However, a small number of people develop Alzheimer disease at a younger age, which is known as early-onset Alzheimer disease. In this blog post, we will discuss what early-onset Alzheimer disease is, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

What is Early-Onset Alzheimer Disease?

Early-onset Alzheimer disease is a form of Alzheimer disease that affects people under the age of 65. Most of the people with early-onset Alzheimer disease have the common form of the disease, which progresses in roughly the same way as it does in older people. However, there is a rare form of the disease called familial Alzheimer disease, which is caused by genes that directly contribute to Alzheimer disease.

What Causes Early-Onset Alzheimer Disease?

The cause of early-onset Alzheimer disease is not fully understood, but experts believe that two proteins, beta-amyloid and tau, damage and kill nerve cells. The plaques and tangles that are formed by these proteins lead to the development of Alzheimer disease. People with Alzheimer disease develop many more plaques and tangles than others, but experts do not know why this happens.

What are the Risks for Early-Onset Alzheimer Disease?

The only known risk factor for early-onset Alzheimer disease is a family history of the disease.

What are the Symptoms of Early-Onset Alzheimer Disease?

The symptoms of early-onset Alzheimer disease closely mirror those of other forms of Alzheimer disease. Some of the early symptoms include forgetting important things, trouble solving basic problems, losing track of the date or time, misplacing things, and increasingly poor judgment. Later symptoms include severe memory loss, trouble speaking and swallowing, and severe mood swings.

Diagnosis of Early-Onset Alzheimer Disease

The diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer disease relies on detecting the signs of mental decline and cognitive tests of memory, problem-solving, and other mental skills. Further testing may include blood and urine tests, spinal fluid tests, and imaging tests of the brain. In the future, researchers hope that studies on biomarkers will allow for a quicker diagnosis.

Treatment of Early-Onset Alzheimer Disease

Early-onset Alzheimer disease currently has no cure, but healthcare providers have been successful in helping people maintain their mental function and control behavior. Medicines, such as Donepezil, Rivastigmine, Galantamine, and Memantine, can be used to help people maintain mental function. Other treatments that may slow the progress of the disease include physical activity, cardiovascular and diabetes treatments, antioxidants, and cognitive training.

Prevention of Early-Onset Alzheimer Disease

Experts do not know how to prevent Alzheimer disease, but early detection can lead to better treatment options. It is important to look for any early warning signs and see a healthcare provider immediately if you notice any.

Living with Early-Onset Alzheimer Disease

Living with early-onset Alzheimer disease can be difficult, but it is important to have a positive outlook and stay active and mentally engaged. It is also important to rely on friends and family, and consider joining a support group if helpful. Keeping your mind and body healthy with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and reducing stress can also help improve quality of life.

When to Call Your Healthcare Provider

It is important to monitor your condition and call your healthcare provider if you notice any sudden changes that require additional help.

Source: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/alzheimers-disease/earlyonset-alzheimer-disease#:~:text=Although%20Alzheimer%20disea