Am I at risk for Alzheimer’s?

Am I at risk for Alzheimer’s? A question that often plagues many. After the age of 40 many people tend to forget things, even those that may be important for them in their day to day life – where they kept a certain document, the name of their cousin, etc. They start worrying more especially if they have seen someone in their family develop dementia or a stroke. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia (a group of disorders causing loss of intellectual and social skills).

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Our human brain is a highly complex structure and can perform lot of tasks finely in a short span of time. We memorize things for years together, we calculate, solve puzzles, analyze things, and create new stuff even under stressful circumstances. But there is one devastating disease which deteriorates brain function gradually. Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative disease of the brain in which the brain cells degenerate and die, causing a steady decline in memory and mental function and consequently the quality of life of the person.

Are you at the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease? Check out the following factors:
Most researchers agree that the cause for Alzheimer’s disease may be a complex set of risk factors.

Are you in your 40’s or 50’s?

Studies have shown that the greatest known risk for developing Alzheimer’s is increasing age after 40 or 50’s. The rate of dementia doubles every decade after age 60. As many as 2-4 % of all people of 65 years of age and older have Alzheimer’s disease. As many as 20 % (or more) of population over 85 years age have the disease.

 Do you have a family history of Alzheimer’s?

Your are at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease if a first-degree relative – your parent, grandparent or sibling , uncle or aunt has the disease. Scientists have identified rare changes (mutations) in genes that inherit through generations.

Are you suffering from Heart disease or Diabetes?

Studies show that people suffering with high blood pressure or other heart disease or diabetes during their mid life or late life are at high risk of Alzheimer’s.

Are you obese?

Both obesity and lack of physical activity are important risk factors for diabetes and high blood pressure. Obesity in midlife may increase the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Do you smoke and drink very often?

If you are a regular smoker and drinker in your mid life, you are at the high risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease in your late 60’s.

Are you suffering from depression or prolonged emotional stress?

If you are experiencing depression or are under prolonged emotional stress, in your mid life and late life then there are high chances that you may land up with Alzheimer’s disease.

Were you deprived of nutrition and vitamins since your early life?

Your nutritional intake also plays an important role in your health. If you are deprived of nutrition and vitamin during your developmental age and mid life, you are at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Have you suffered from serious head injury?

There may be a strong link between serious head injury and future risk of Alzheimer’s, especially when the injury occurs repeatedly or involves loss of consciousness.

Low education (lesser than high school) is one of the likely risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease

Few tips to avoid risk factors for Alzheimer’s:

Some factors like your age and genetics are outside your control. But many others like smoking are well within your hands.

Regular exercise stimulates you brain cells and keeps them functioning properly. Healthy diet gives you proper nutrition. Those who continue learning new things throughout life and challenging their brains are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease.
Get adequate (minimum 7 hours) sleep at night. Try and manage to your stress and engage yourself in social and mental activities.

How can homoeopathy help you?

Homoeopathy has been very effective in treating depression and other psychological conditions like Anxiety and stress disorders. Homoeopathy can help improve mild cognitive impairment.

Homoeopathic medicines can help recently diagnosed high blood pressure and diabetes in initial stage and to control the disease along with conventional treatment in long standing uncontrolled cases.

If you are worried about any of the above risk factors for Alzheimer’s, contact us at LifeForce Homeopathy via the space below. We will help you identify your risk factors and guide you to prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

Dr. Rajesh Shah’s research based medicines at Life Force help bring about definite improvement in memory in Alzheimer’s patients. To know more, give us a call on +91-22-66888888 or write in to us at info@lifeforce.in or visit http://www.askdrshah.com/alzheimer.aspx

-Dr Aparna Hingmire, Associate doctor to Dr Rajesh Shah, Life Force Team