DEALING WITH EARLY-ONSET ALZHEIMER’S
We throw andon signs and symptoms of this disease, as well as the need fo r its timely diagnosis and treatment
September 21, across the globe, marks World Alzheimer’s Day. And contrary to popular belief, this disease — a form of progressive, memoryrobbing brain condition — can often show up in your 20s or 30s, owing to genetic mutations and other factors.
“Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder causing people to slowly and permanently lose their memory as well as other cognitive functions,” informs Dr Pankaj Agarwal, senior consultant (Neurology), at Mumbai’s Global Hospital.
Amyloid plaque buildup is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s, and is commonly found in those diagnosed with the disease.
“It is because of degeneration of brain cells involved with memory and accumulation of abnormal proteins and plaque in the brain. Though it’s a disease of an ageing population, 10% of cases are detected at a young age. Family history, genetic mutations, exposure to toxic chemicals may be
responsible for early onset,” shares Dr Amruta Bakshi, physician, Loop Health.
The signs of early-onset Alzheimer’s are more or less the same as that of late onset. “The first problem is impaired short-term memory. The patient may start asking repeatedly for tea, even after he has had it once. He/she may forget to do things that he’s been asked to do, such as deposit money in a bank,” shares Dr Siddharth Kharkar, senior consultant neurologist at Nanavati Max Hospital, Mumbai.
Patients may even find it difficult to find the right word initially and complete sentences. Also, in some patients, behaviour and judgement may also get impaired.
An accurate diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer’s is crucial for medical reasons, to rule out other potential issues.
“Early screening and detection among young people through blood tests, to study fat in the bloodstream, defective IRS-1 protein and blood marker microRNA, could lead the way in slowing down the progression of the disease, as well as improved, effective prevention and treatment modalities,” says Dr Angeli Misra, consultant pathologist and founder, Lifeline Laboratory.
Though it’s a disease of an ageing population, 10% cases are detected at a young age. Family history, exposure to toxic chemicals may be responsible. DR AMRUTA BAKSHI, Physician