We are starting to make significant breakthroughs in medical research regarding Alzheimer’s disease. However, effective treatments for this form of dementia remain largely elusive. Therefore, it is essential that we learn how other diseases affect one’s chances of developing Alzheimer’s. This makes dealing with these diseases a priority, as it could help protect against developing Alzheimer’s later in life. In this article, we will take a look at 11 diseases that have been associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Anxiety and Depression
There’s a significant amount of data that suggests that anxiety and depression are often the first signs that arise in people who eventually develop Alzheimer’s. Scientists say that depression and anxiety may not only be early signs of the disease but may actually be factors that lead to the development of the disease. This is because both anxiety and depression elevate one’s cortisol levels and this stress hormone is believed to damage the brain.
Anemia
According to the American Society of Hematology, anemia affects more than three million individuals in the States and is defined by a lack of red blood cells. Red blood cells are responsible for delivering oxygen to the body. This is why people with anemia always feel tired and fatigued. Researchers feel that the concern lies in the fact that the brain is deprived of oxygen. This increases the risk of developing the kind of damage typically observed in Alzheimer’s patients.
Down Syndrome
According to Columbia University Medical Center’s professor of neuropsychology, Elise Caccappolo, “The genetics are similar in Down syndrome and Alzheimer’s”. In fact, if individuals with Down syndrome live to a certain age, they will eventually develop Alzheimer’s. The syndrome is triggered by a genetic mutation that is also known to cause a hallmark of Alzheimer’s – amyloid plaques.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 Diabetes is considered a potential Alzheimer’s risk factor for several reasons. The biggest reason is the fact that diabetes causes an excessive inflammatory response in many organs – such as the brain. Diabetes also contributes to conditions that are conducive to a stroke – another significant factor for developing Alzheimer’s. Luckily, high blood sugar levels can be managed by implementing certain lifestyle and dietary changes.
Gum Disease
Gingivitis and periodontitis, or gum disease, indicate the presence of bacteria in your mouth. These germs are mobile and can spread to the heart and brain, causing inflammation. Gum disease is incredibly widespread, affecting approximately half of adults in the United States. Fortunately, it is simple to prevent and treat. Floss your teeth religiously, and schedule routine cleanings and checkups every six months.
Herpes
Researchers suspect that by causing chronic inflammation, herpes infections could accelerate the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. While researchers formerly assumed the amyloid plaques discovered in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients were cellular waste, they now believe the plaque is the body’s protective reaction to an infection. The more plaques produced by the human body (such as from repeated herpes outbreaks), the higher the risk of subsequently developing Alzheimer’s.
Hearing Loss
Hearing loss does not seem to induce the physical brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease. However, it could cause and exacerbate dementia, and perhaps aggravate Alzheimer’s symptoms. The effects of any cognitive impairment will most likely be made worse by any significant sensory impairment. In fact, researchers discovered that someone’s likelihood of developing dementia increased with the severity of their hearing loss.
High Blood Pressure
Anything you would typically need to discuss with a cardiologist could be considered a risk factor, including high blood pressure. This is due to the fact that cardiovascular disease can disrupt the blood supply to the brain. High blood pressure causes damage to the small vessels that supply oxygen to the brain. Older individuals who have an average blood pressure that is higher than that of others their age are at a higher risk of developing plaques in their brains.
Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects more than 25 million Americans, with many instances going untreated. Men are more likely to develop OSA, which interrupts breathing during sleep and limits oxygen supply to important organs, including the brain. According to studies, OSA is associated with higher amyloid-beta protein levels, which contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. Irregular sleep breathing may potentially hasten Alzheimer’s onset. Addressing OSA not only improves daily life but may also delay or prevent cognitive deterioration, stressing the necessity of treatment.
Obesity
Obesity is a serious health issue in the United States. In fact, according to the CDC, almost two-thirds of adults in the States are obese or overweight. Obesity increases your risk of developing one of the other higher risk factors on this list, such as cardiovascular issues, high blood pressure, and diabetes. You have a high probability of developing Alzheimer’s if you live a sedentary lifestyle, are obese, and have a genetic predisposition to developing it.
Stroke
According to research published in Alzheimer’s and Dementia, almost 50% of Alzheimer’s patients’ brains exhibit evidence of strokes. As we mentioned earlier, stroke is one of the risk factors for getting Alzheimer’s. Some risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease and stroke also overlap. These include smoking, hypertension, and diabetes.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.
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