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Showing posts with the label brain disease

Warning: These Everyday Habits Could Increase Your Risk of Dementia

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  Dementia is not a normal part of aging. It’s a serious cognitive decline that affects memory, reasoning, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. The most common form is Alzheimer’s disease, but there are others - including vascular dementia and Lewy body dementia that also impair brain function. According to the World Health Organization, over 55 million people live with dementia globally, and that number is projected to double in the next two decades. While age and genetics are risk factors we can’t control, there are many everyday behaviors that   are   within our power to change - and ignoring them may raise your risk significantly. Here’s the truth: dementia doesn’t just “show up” one day. It can take years, even decades, to develop. That means the decisions you make today could shape your brain health tomorrow. Emerging research now shows that certain lifestyle choices may accelerate cognitive decline - and it’s time to take these warnings seriously. Some of thes...

Stroke: The Brain Attack You Can’t Afford to Ignore

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        A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is suddenly blocked or a blood vessel bursts, causing brain cells to die within minutes. It’s the second leading cause of death worldwide and a major cause of disability. Stroke is not just an "old person’s disease"—it can strike anyone, at any time.          Most strokes are preventable, and fast treatment can mean the difference between full recovery and lifelong disability. This article breaks down what causes strokes, how to recognize them, and the latest science on prevention and treatment.   Types of Stroke: What’s Happening in Your Brain?   There are three main types of stroke:     1️Ischemic Stroke (87% of cases) – A blood clot blocks an artery supplying the brain. Causes include:       Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries)       Atrial fibrillation (AFib) (irregular heartbeat that form...

15 Medical Facts About Alzheimer’s Disease for Caregivers and Sufferers

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Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that profoundly impacts memory, cognition, and daily functioning. As the most prevalent cause of dementia, it accounts for an estimated 60% to 80% of cases. Understanding the intricacies of Alzheimer's is crucial for caregivers and those affected, as it enables informed decision-making and effective management of the disease. This article delineates 15 essential medical facts about Alzheimer's disease, grounded in scientific research, to provide a comprehensive overview for caregivers and sufferers.   1. Prevalence and Mortality  Alzheimer's disease affects over 6 million Americans aged 65 and older (National Institute on Aging, 2024). One in three seniors dies with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia, a mortality rate higher than that of breast and prostate cancers combined (Alzheimer’s Association, 2024).   2. Pathophysiology   The hallmark pathological features include amyloid-beta plaqu...