Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. The disease is characterized by the accumulation of beta-amyloid protein in the brain, which forms plaques that disrupt communication between brain cells. As the disease progresses, it can cause confusion, difficulty with language, mood swings, and eventually loss of ability to care for oneself. There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. Treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life for individuals with the disease, but they do not stop the disease from progressing.

In simple terms, Alzheimer’s disease can cause a person to forget things, become confused, and have trouble with everyday tasks. They may forget important dates or events, struggle to remember names of people they know, and even lose their ability to speak or recognize familiar faces. As the disease progresses, they can have changes in mood or personality, and may become easily agitated, anxious, or withdrawn. They may also have trouble with daily activities like bathing, dressing, or grooming. It can be a very challenging and difficult experience for both the person with Alzheimer’s and their loved ones.

The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease vary from person to person but generally involve a gradual decline in cognitive abilities. These symptoms may include:

• Memory loss, especially difficulty with short-term memory.
• Difficulty with language, including finding the right words or understanding what others are saying.
• Difficulty with abstract thinking, making decisions, or problem solving.
• Difficulty with tasks requiring visual perception, such as judging distance, navigating, or reading.
• Misplacing things or being unable to retrace steps.
• Changes in mood or personality, such as becoming fearful, suspicious, or angry.
• Loss of motivation or interest in hobbies and activities.
• Difficulty with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, or grooming.

There are two main types of Alzheimer’s disease:

Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease: This type of Alzheimer’s occurs before the age of 65 and is relatively rare, accounting for less than 10% of all cases. It is linked to genetic mutations that can be inherited from a parent, and symptoms tend to progress rapidly.

Late-onset Alzheimer’s disease: This is the most common type of Alzheimer’s and occurs after the age of 65. It is not directly linked to genetic mutations but can be associated with other risk factors such as age, genetics, lifestyle choices, and medical conditions.

There are also several subtypes of Alzheimer’s disease based on the underlying pathology seen in the brain. These subtypes include: 

• Amyloid-positive Alzheimer’s: This subtype is characterized by the presence of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, which disrupt communication between brain cells.
• Tau-positive Alzheimer’s: This subtype is characterized by the accumulation of tau protein in the brain, which forms tangles that interfere with cellular functioning.
• Limbic-predominant age-related TDP-43 encephalopathy (LATE): This new subtype of Alzheimer’s is characterized by the accumulation of TDP-43 protein that starts in the brain’s temporal lobe and moves to other parts of the brain, causing decline in memory and cognitive function.

*It’s important to note that these subtypes are still being studied and further research is needed to fully understand their implications for diagnosis and treatment.

At present, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, and the available treatments focus on managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. The conventional treatment of Alzheimer’s generally includes:

• Cholinesterase inhibitors: These medications are used to boost levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in memory and learning that is often depleted in Alzheimer’s patients. Examples of cholinesterase inhibitors include donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine.

• NMDA receptor antagonists: These medications are used to regulate glutamate, another neurotransmitter that is involved in learning and memory. The most common NMDA antagonist used to treat Alzheimer’s is memantine. Antidepressants and antipsychotic medications: These medications are sometimes prescribed to treat mood disturbances that often accompany Alzheimer’s disease, such as depression or agitation.

• Lifestyle modifications: Exercise, a balanced diet, social interaction, and mental stimulation have been shown to improve cognitive function in some people with Alzheimer’s disease.

It’s important to note that while these treatments may help manage the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, they do not cure the disease or stop its progression. Therefore, ongoing research is needed to develop new treatments and, ultimately, a cure for Alzheimer’s.

Orthomolecular medicine is a field of study that focuses on using optimal nutrient supplementation to restore and maintain health. Recently published research suggests that degenerative brain diseases are associated with oxidative stress or “free radicals” in the brain accompanied by low levels of metallothionein and glutathione or “protector proteins”. These significant markers appear to contribute to the chronic inflammation which underlies the brain cell destruction caused by Alzheimer’s Disease (AD).

Given the significant clinical correlation of oxidative damage found in patients on the autism spectrum and those with AD or dementia, Dr. Albert Mensah, MD, began using the successful antioxidant therapy approach found in patients with both autism and in beginning stages of AD or dementia.

In particular, orthomolecular medicine suggests that Alzheimer’s disease may be caused by a buildup of free radicals and inflammation in the brain, which can damage brain cells and interfere with normal cellular functioning. Therefore, orthomolecular treatments aim to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress by providing the body with the right balance of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other nutrients.

Since 2006, Dr. Mensah and Dr. Bowman with a multi-disciplinary clinical team have provided a specialized antioxidant treatment program for patients with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia to counteract oxidative stress. This program involves “Metallothionein-Enhancement Therapy” which is aimed at slowing or halting the progression of the disease. Many patients with AD or dementia have reported partial return of lost memory followed by stabilization of mental functioning that has continued for more than five years. These reports have been verified by improved scores using psychometric testing, the Mini-Mental Test and computerized CANTAB testing. These early results are promising, bolstering Mensah Medical’s desire to evaluate the program for clinical efficacy.

Some of the other treatments used in orthomolecular medicine for Alzheimer’s disease may include:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: These healthy fats are thought to reduce inflammation and promote brain health, and are often found in foods like fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts.

• Antioxidants: Antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and selenium can help neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative damage in the brain.

• B Vitamins: B vitamins, particularly B6, B9 (folic acid), and B12, are essential for brain health and may help reduce homocysteine levels, a compound that is linked to inflammation and brain damage.

• Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): CoQ10 is an antioxidant that helps cells produce energy and may have protective effects on the brain.

If you or a loved one are in the early to moderate stages of Alzheimer’s Disease or dementia we encourage you to become patients for our integrative approach to Alzheimer’s care. Since the nutrients are not pharmacological drugs, it is considered safe and its potential rewards may be nearly unlimited.

The exact causes of Alzheimer’s disease are still not fully understood, but research suggests that a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors may contribute to the development of the disease. Some of the most significant factors that have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease include:

• Age: Advanced age is the most significant risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, with the risk of developing Alzheimer’s doubling roughly every five years after the age of 65.

• Genetics: Some cases of Alzheimer’s disease appear to be directly linked to genetic mutations, with people who have a family history of the disease being at a higher risk.

• Lifestyle factors: Lifestyle factors, such as a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and smoking, can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

• Cardiovascular health: Poor cardiovascular health, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes, has been linked to an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

• Brain injury: Studies suggest that people who have experienced traumatic brain injuries (TBI) may be at an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

• Environmental factors: Some environmental factors, such as exposure to toxins, pollution or chronic stress, may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s disease is a complex and multifactorial condition, and there are several risk factors that can increase a person’s likelihood of developing the disease. Some of the most commonly recognized risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease include:

• Age: Age is the biggest risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, with the risk increasing significantly after the age of 65.

• Genetics: Family history of Alzheimer’s disease may increase a person’s risk. Genetic mutations such as those in the genes PSEN1, PSEN2, and APP may also increase the risk of Alzheimer’s.

• Gender: Women may have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease compared to men.

• Lifestyle factors: Unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as lack of exercise, poor diet, smoking, and alcohol abuse, may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

• Medical conditions: Health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

• Traumatic brain injury: Head injuries like concussions and traumatic brain injuries may be linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

• Depression: A history of depression, particularly later in life, may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive condition that affects the brain and can have a range of serious complications. Some of the most common complications of Alzheimer’s disease include:

• Inability to perform activities of daily living: As the disease progresses, people with Alzheimer’s may find it difficult or impossible to perform activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, or grooming.

• Risk of falls: People with Alzheimer’s are at a higher risk of falling due to problems with balance, mobility, and coordination.

• Wandering and getting lost: People with Alzheimer’s may wander away from home, become disoriented, and get lost, which can be dangerous.

• Malnutrition and dehydration: As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, people may lose their appetite or have difficulty swallowing, which can lead to malnutrition and dehydration.

• Infections: People with Alzheimer’s disease may be at an increased risk of infections such as pneumonia or urinary tract infections, which can be difficult to treat.

• Sleep disturbances: People with Alzheimer’s often experience sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or daytime sleepiness.

• Behavioral and psychological symptoms: As the disease progresses, people with Alzheimer’s may also experience behavioral and psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, aggression, agitation, and hallucinations.

• Death: Ultimately, Alzheimer’s disease can lead to death. The risk of death increases as the disease progresses, although the exact cause of death may vary.

These complications can be managed with proper care, support, and medical attention, but they can be challenging for both the person with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. It is important for family members and healthcare providers to be aware of these complications and take steps to address them as soon as possible.

While there is no known way to completely prevent Alzheimer’s disease, there are some steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing the condition. These may include:

• Adopting a healthy lifestyle: Engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and avoiding or quitting smoking can help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

• Engaging in mentally stimulating activities: Keeping the brain active and engaged with activities such as reading, puzzles, socializing, and learning new things may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

• Managing chronic health conditions: Managing conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol through proper medical care, healthy diet, and exercise can help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

• Protecting the head: Taking measures to prevent head injury by wearing helmets for sports, avoiding falls or taking safety measures to prevent falls can also help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease related to head trauma.

• Staying socially engaged: Maintaining social connections and engaging in activities with other people has been associated with a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

• Maintaining mental health: Addressing mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, which have been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease may help reduce the risk.

While these measures do not guarantee prevention, taking steps towards a healthy lifestyle and reducing risk factors may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized health plan to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is typically made based on a combination of a patient’s medical history, physical examination, cognitive tests, and brain imaging.

The following are the general steps in diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease:

• Medical history: The doctor will begin by asking the patient and family members about any symptoms they have noticed, their duration and severity, and any other medical conditions or medications.

• Physical examination: The doctor will perform a physical examination to check the patient’s overall health, including vital signs, neurological function, and overall mental status.

• Cognitive tests: The doctor will administer a series of cognitive tests to assess memory, language, reasoning, and other cognitive functions. These tests may include the Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) or other standardized tests.

• Brain imaging: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), or computed tomography (CT) scans may be ordered to help identify changes in the brain and rule out other possible causes of cognitive impairment.

• Laboratory tests: Blood and urine tests may be used to evaluate the patient’s overall health and to rule out other medical conditions that may cause similar symptoms.

To make a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, doctors may use specific criteria established by professional organizations like the National Institute on Aging, the Alzheimer’s Association or Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The criteria require that the patient experience impairment in multiple areas of cognitive functioning and that these impairments interfere with the ability to function in daily life activities. The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease requires a comprehensive evaluation, and early diagnosis can help patients receive appropriate care and support.

While there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease, lifestyle changes and home remedies may help reduce the symptoms associated with the condition.

The following tips may help people living with Alzheimer’s manage symptoms and improve quality of life:

• Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can improve sleep, boost mood, and increase energy levels. Exercising at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

• Eat a healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, low-fat dairy products, nuts, seeds, and legumes can help promote overall health. Diets should be conducive to your biochemical status.

• Get enough rest: Getting adequate rest can help improve mood and focus. Taking regular breaks throughout the day is important for managing stress levels and maintaining energy levels.

• Practice relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga can help reduce stress levels, ease anxiety, and improve overall mental wellbeing.

• Stimulate the brain: Engaging in mentally stimulating activities such as puzzles or reading can help keep the mind sharp and active. Socializing with friends or family members also provides mental stimulation and emotional support.

• Stay organized: Keeping a schedule or routine can be helpful in managing activities during the day so that tasks are not forgotten or overlooked. Using memory aids such as notes or calendars can also be beneficial to maintaining an organized daily routine.

Alternative medicine or natural remedies offer a wide range of treatments to those living with Alzheimer’s disease. These treatments are often used in conjunction with conventional treatments, such as medications and cognitive therapies, to help improve symptoms and quality of life.

Some of the most common alternative medicine or natural remedies for Alzheimer’s include:

• Herbal Supplements: Certain herbs, like ginkgo biloba, can be taken in supplement form to help improve cognition and reduce symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s. Other supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids or vitamin B12 may also be beneficial.

• Acupuncture: Patients may experience symptom relief from the stimulation of specific points on the body through the use of acupuncture needles. This type of treatment has been studied for its potential to improve memory and cognition in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

• Massage therapy: Massage therapy has been found to reduce stress levels, improve mood and relaxation, increase energy levels, and alleviate pain associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

• Aromatherapy: The use of essential oils has been studied for its potential benefits in improving sleep quality and decreasing anxiety in those living with Alzheimer’s disease.

• Meditation: Meditative practices such as mindfulness meditation have been found to be beneficial for people living with Alzheimer’s by helping them focus their attention and improving overall mental wellbeing.

Prior to your first appointment at Mensah Medical, you will be required to complete a new patient intake form as well as a patient history form. These forms must be submitted to Mensah Medical before an appointment can be scheduled. For Outreach Clinic appointments these forms must be submitted one week before the scheduled Outreach. For established patients, prior to your follow up you will be required to complete a progress report. This must be submitted via your Elation Passport at least 72 hours before the appointment.

At Mensah Medical, we run lab work and blood tests to confirm your bio individual needs. If during the appointment the doctors deem it necessary they may order additional testing such as a hair analysis, G.I. Map, SAM/SAH Methylation Profile, or others. The physicians will create an individualized nutrient protocol to address each of the imbalances presented. Treatment and long-term monitoring will be facilitated by the nursing staff, Dr. Mensah, and Dr. Bowman. Formal follow ups on an individual’s progression will be done every six months to ensure biochemical levels and symptoms are responding appropriately.