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Alzheimer's disease
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Condition

Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that causes a gradual loss of memory, judgment, and functional ability.

Overview

Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative brain condition that typically appears in individuals older than age 65, though early-onset forms can occur. Memory loss is the most common sign, eventually interfering with daily tasks, recognition of people, and the ability to perform personal care. As the disease progresses, individuals may experience personality changes, behavioral issues, and loss of language skills.

Symptoms

  • Subtle forgetfulness that worsens over time.
  • Difficulty with routine tasks like cooking or cleaning.
  • Confusion in familiar settings.
  • Difficulty recognizing people or naming objects.
  • Personality and behavioral changes.
  • Agitation, restlessness, and social withdrawal.
  • Loss of language skills.

Causes

The disease is classified into two main forms:

  • Early-onset familial Alzheimer's disease (FAD): Caused by gene variants in the APP, PSEN1, or PSEN2 genes. These mutations lead to the production of toxic amyloid beta peptide, which forms clumps called plaques that damage nerve cells.
  • Late-onset Alzheimer's disease: The causes are less clear and likely involve a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. The APOE gene, specifically the e4 allele, is a known risk factor.

Individuals with Down syndrome also have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, likely due to having three copies of the APP gene.

Inheritance

Early-onset familial Alzheimer's disease is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, meaning one copy of an altered gene is sufficient to cause the disorder. The inheritance of late-onset Alzheimer's is uncertain; while the APOE e4 allele increases risk, it does not guarantee the development of the disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Three cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine) and an NMDA‑receptor antagonist (memantine) are FDA‑approved. They are typically initiated after a formal diagnosis of mild‑to‑moderate Alzheimer’s, based on cognitive testing and functional assessment, and may be continued as the disease progresses, adjusting doses as needed.
The first red flags are frequent misplacement of items, repeated questions about the same topic, difficulty recalling recent events while still remembering remote memories, and subtle trouble following familiar routines (e.g., preparing a usual meal). If these changes persist for several months and interfere with daily life, a clinician should be consulted.
Yes. A Mediterranean‑style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and olive oil; regular aerobic exercise (150 minutes/week); maintaining a healthy blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose; cognitive engagement (puzzles, learning new skills); and adequate sleep (7–8 hours/night) have all been associated with reduced risk.
Testing for APOE status is optional and does not change current treatment options; it only provides information about risk. Most clinicians reserve APOE testing for research or when a patient specifically wants to know their genetic risk, but it should be accompanied by genetic counseling to explain that having e4 increases risk but does not guarantee disease.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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