If you’re concerned about developing Alzheimer’s disease, there are steps you can take to prevent it or at least slow its progress. COVID-19 is one such tool that can protect your brain from Alzheimer’s and dementia in general, so make sure to get tested if you think it might help you. Read on to learn more about the power of COVID-19 and how it can help improve memory function, reduce your risk of dementia, and lower your chances of suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other memory issues.
1) COVID-19 can cause mild memory loss
COVID-19 can cause mild memory loss. The virus is common among people who live or work in close quarters with others. If you are infected with COVID-19 you may experience headache, fever, fatigue, sore throat or a body rash that looks like a sunburn. In most cases, these symptoms will go away on their own after about a week. But in some cases the person may have more severe symptoms such as confusion, difficulty breathing or swallowing. These symptoms may require treatment at the hospital.
2) Alzheimer’s disease can cause severe memory loss
This disease is a kind of irreversible, brain disease that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills progressively. An estimated 5.7 million Americans are living with this disease today, but the number will grow as baby boomers age. Today, someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s every 66 seconds. The risk of developing this disease doubles every five years after age 60. People with mild or moderate Alzheimer’s may live for a decade or more.
3) There is no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease
It is a common cause of dementia. There is no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but research has shown that treatments can reduce symptoms. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends lifestyle changes such as exercise, good nutrition, social engagement, cognitive activities, and mental stimulation to help manage symptoms.
4) Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease is the most severe form of the disease
Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease is the most severe form of the disease. The average age of diagnosis is 60 years old, but symptoms can appear as early as one’s 30s. Early-onset Alzheimer’s symptoms may start in a person’s 30s or 40s with memory issues that are unusual for a person at their age. They may forget important dates or events and have trouble finding words they want to say.
5) There is no known way to prevent Alzheimer’s disease
There is no way to know and prevent Alzheimer’s disease. However, there are several steps you can take today that may reduce your risk of developing the disease in the future. These include exercising daily (30 minutes of brisk walking), eating healthy foods, getting enough sleep (7+ hours per night), reducing stress levels, and staying socially active. If any of these become too difficult, it’s important to seek help from a doctor or therapist as soon as possible.
