The Continuing Search For A Cure For Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s is a progressive and debilitating brain disorder, which affects millions of elderly individuals today. It destroys the person’s memory, and also obliterates the person’s ability to communicate with others, make judgments, reason out and also perform daily activities. Health experts and researchers stress that at present, there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s, despite the rising numbers of the afflicted. However, the good thing is that a number of treatments and testing methods have greatly been helpful in slowing down the progression of the disease, as well as in considerably easing the symptoms.
How The Search For A Cure Is Faring Today
A number of studies and research have been conducted into complementary and nutritional medicine, and on how it can contribute to alleviating the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, as well as effectively cure it.
Researchers have noted that antioxidant vitamins C and E have been noted to improve cognitive abilities and have also shown progress in slowing down the progression of the disease. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are present in fish, canola and flax seed, have also been observed to help slow down the signs and symptoms of the disorder Some researchers have also observed positive indications that the herb ginko biloba has been helpful in treating, preventing and curing Alzheimer’s.
Research Is Also Being Done To Create A Alzheimer’s Vaccine
A number of studies are also being conducted to creating the perfect Alzheimer’s vaccine. However, unlike other vaccines that are given prior to the onset of a disease, the Alzheimer’s vaccine will be given to people who already have been diagnosed with it. The vaccine’s functions are to train the body how to attack the proteins or compounds that lead to the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. The sad thing is that the recent clinical trials for the vaccine have been temporarily stopped, because some participants experienced severe side effects, which included swelling of the brain.
NSAID’s And Cholesterol-Reducing Drugs
Some research is also being conducted on the possible effects of cholesterol-reducing medications on Alzheimer’s. Some cholesterol-reducing drugs such as statins, have shown promise in improving cognitive functioning, however these have not yet been fully proven in experimental research. NSAID’s or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin and acetaminophen, have also been observed to offer a positive effect on Alzheimer’s patients. However, research proponents agree that more work has to be done to fully ascertain its effects on patients.
Preventive Methods That Work
While doctors and medical researchers agree that no concrete Alzheimer’s cure is still in sight, a number of studies have shown promise when it comes to Alzheimer’s prevention and risk reduction. Doctors say that for those who have family members with Alzheimer’s, it’s important that they stay physically active, socially involved and mentally alert, so that they reduce the chances of getting it. Having the right diet also helps. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, as well as in vitamins C and E, and omega-3 fish oil, can help in slowing down the progression of symptoms, as well as in reducing the chances of getting it. Until a cure is found, overall health maintenance and regular physical and mental activity are keys to ensuring that you stay free of the disease.

