Alzheimer’s disease is a term that is commonly heard in today’s world. It is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. Alzheimer’s disease is a common form of dementia that affects millions of people worldwide. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, meaning in different dictionaries, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and the same root words of Alzheimer’s disease.
Definitions
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects the brain’s ability to function properly. It is characterized by the loss of memory, thinking, and behavior. Alzheimer’s disease is a common form of dementia that affects millions of people worldwide.
Origin
Alzheimer’s disease was first described by a German psychiatrist and neuropathologist, Alois Alzheimer, in 1906. He discovered the disease while examining the brain of a woman who had died of an unusual mental illness. The woman had severe memory loss, language problems, and unpredictable behavior. After her death, Alzheimer examined her brain and found unusual clumps and tangles of protein in her brain tissue. These clumps and tangles are now known as amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, which are the hallmark signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, Alzheimer’s disease is defined as “a degenerative brain disease of unknown cause that is the most common form of dementia, that usually starts in late middle age or in old age, that results in progressive memory loss, impaired thinking, disorientation, and changes in personality and mood, and that ultimately leads to a severe decline in cognitive and physical functioning.”
Associations
Alzheimer’s disease is associated with several risk factors, including age, genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Age is the most significant risk factor, as the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease increases with age. Genetics also play a role, as some genes are associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and social engagement, may also affect the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of Alzheimer’s disease include dementia, memory loss, cognitive impairment, and neurodegenerative disease.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of Alzheimer’s disease, as it is a specific medical condition. However, some antonyms of the symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease include mental clarity, sharp memory, and cognitive function.
The same root words
The root words of Alzheimer’s disease are “Alzheimer” and “disease.” “Alzheimer” is the last name of the German psychiatrist and neuropathologist who first described the disease, and “disease” refers to the medical condition.
Example Sentences
- My grandmother has Alzheimer’s disease and struggles with memory loss and confusion.
- The doctor diagnosed him with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
- The Alzheimer’s Association provides support and resources for those affected by the disease.
- He is conducting research on the causes and treatments of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating illness that affects millions of people worldwide.