Brain Cell Changes
Alzheimer's disease is thought to be caused by changes in brain cells. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are two ways in which brain cells are affected: tangles and plaques. Tangles, which may lead to neuron death, occur when tau proteins in the brain that are normally straight become twisted. Plaques occur when beta-amyloid proteins, which are normally harmless, begin to interfere with brain cell communication, causing neuron dysfunction and/or neuron death.
Stage 1
Mild Alzheimer's disease, which is classified as Stage 1, occurs when symptoms are mild. These symptoms include minor memory loss and minor mood swings. Irrational thinking, getting lost and trouble communicating are also signs of this phase. A patient with Stage 1 Alzheimer's might place things in odd places and begin to perform poorly on daily tasks, including work tasks. This stage of the disease usually lasts two to four years.
Stage 2
As the damage to the brain worsens, the patient moves to Stage 2 Alzheimer's disease, also known as moderate Alzheimer's disease. A patient in this stage of Alzheimer's disease might not be able to distinguish past events from present events. Inability to perform complicated tasks without assistance and disorientation are signs of Stage 2 Alzheimer's disease. During this stage, the patient might begin to have trouble comprehending spoken or read words, and he could have difficulty speaking. Depression and irritation are common as a result of the realization that self-care is becoming less likely. The symptoms from Stage 1 remain present during Stage 2 Alzheimer's disease; however, they are markedly worse. Generally, this stage of Alzheimer's disease lasts two to 10 years.
Stage 3
A patient with severe Alzheimer's disease, also known as Stage 3, usually requires around-the-clock care. On top of the symptoms from prior stages, the patient also might sleep more. However, this sleep is often disturbed, and the patient may grunt and groan while sleeping. Loss of bodily functions, including swallowing, as well as bladder and bowel control, is likely in this stage. Because of the inability to move on her own, a patient might experience skin infections and respiratory problems. The patient might begin to have seizures. This is the stage of Alzheimer's usually associated with the inability to recognize loved ones and friends. This final stage of Alzheimer's disease is caused by severe damage to the brain and typically lasts one to three years.
