Alzheimer’s disease (AD) remains one of the most challenging medical conditions seen in the elderly. With an aging population, India is seeing a rise in the number of patients and families affected by this condition. Recent medical statistics suggest that approximately 88 lakh Indians, 7.4% of adults aged 60 and above, are living with dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. While the precise number of Alzheimer’s cases is not specified, it is estimated that 70-80% of all dementia cases in India are Alzheimer’s. While there is currently no cure, new therapies and improved diagnostic tools available at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, one of the best Alzheimer’s disease hospitals in Mumbai, are shaping the way we diagnose and manage Alzheimer’s.
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What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder first described in 1906 by Dr. Alois Alzheimer. It is marked by the build-up of abnormal proteins, beta-amyloid plaques, and tau tangles, which disrupt communication between nerve cells. Over time, this leads to the death of brain cells, causing memory loss, impaired reasoning, and behavioral changes. It is important to note that “dementia” is an umbrella term for conditions that cause cognitive decline. Alzheimer’s is the most common type, though other forms include Parkinson’s disease, dementia, Huntington’s disease, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.
Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease
Recognizing Alzheimer’s early can make a crucial difference in care. Some of the most common warning signs include:
- Frequent memory lapses, especially around recent events.
- Difficulty planning, organizing, or solving everyday problems.
- Trouble finding the right words during conversation.
- Misplacing items and losing the ability to retrace steps.
- Confusion about time, place, or familiar surroundings.
- Withdrawal from work, hobbies, or social activities.
- Changes in personality, becoming anxious, irritable, or suspicious.
While the symptoms start subtly, they keep progressing over the years, and patients eventually require round-the-clock care. Early diagnosis and medical care ensure maximum benefit from available therapies and allow families to plan for the future.
How Is Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosis has come a long way in recent years. Clinicians use a combination of clinical assessment, cognitive testing, and advanced imaging devices to aid professionals in diagnosing the disease earlier and more precisely.
Stepwise Diagnostic Process:
- Medical History and Symptom Evaluation
A physician takes a history of memory loss, behavioral change, and decline in function. Information from caregivers is precious. - Physical and Neurological Examination
Reflexes, coordination, balance, hearing, and muscle tone are checked for other causes. - Laboratory Tests
Lab tests through blood examinations rule out imitators such as thyroid dysfunction or vitamin deficiencies. - Cognitive and Neuropsychological Testing
Memory, attention, problem-solving, and language abilities are evaluated by standardized tests. - Brain Imaging
MRI and CT scans can identify strokes, tumors, or atrophy in brain areas involved with Alzheimer’s. Sophisticated PET scans may show amyloid plaques or tau tangles.
Early diagnosis enables patients to make informed choices regarding their medical treatment, financial planning, and living situation. It also facilitates the prompt launching of drugs that work best during the initial stages. Crucially, caregivers can obtain the support they require in managing the issues of long-term care. It’s also worth noting that not every memory impairment is a sign of Alzheimer’s disease. Depression, thyroid conditions, vitamin deficiencies, or side effects from drugs can simulate dementia and are frequently reversible. Accurate diagnosis is thus essential.
Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
At present, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, treatments are available at Kokilaben Hospital’s Alzheimer’s Clinic to alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and slow functional decline.
- Medical History and Symptom Evaluation
A doctor obtains a history of memory loss, change in behavior, and function decline. Caregiver information is invaluable. - Physical and Neurological Examination
Reflexes, coordination, balance, hearing, and muscle tone are screened for other causes. - Laboratory Tests
Laboratory tests via blood studies exclude imitators like thyroid disease or vitamin deficiencies. - Cognitive and Neuropsychological Testing
Memory, attention, problem-solving, and language function are tested with standardized tests.
Alzheimer’s Care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai
At our Centre for Neurosciences, we specialize in providing comprehensive care to patients with neurological conditions causing memory loss, confusion, speech difficulties, or behavioral changes. Recognized as one of the best hospitals for Alzheimer’s disease treatment in Mumbai, our centre offers:
- Neurology consultation and detailed assessment.
- Cognitive and physical rehabilitation to maintain independence.
- Psychotherapy and behavioral therapy for patients and families.
- Family counseling and caregiver support, helping relatives understand the disease and plan long-term home care.
Alzheimer’s disease is a complex, progressive, life-altering condition that worsens with time. However, advances in the medical world now offer new hope to patients and families. With a focus on early detection, symptom management, and supportive care, we help Alzheimer’s patients lead more meaningful lives. Reach out to our neurologists and consult some of the best doctors for Alzheimer’s Disease in Mumbai for advanced, compassionate, personalized care.
