Understanding the Foundations of Alzheimer's Disease

The first stage of Alzheimer's disease involves complex changes within the brain structure and function. The disease begins with toxic changes in the brain, specifically in the hippocampus, leading to memory formation difficulties.

Definition: Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological condition where symptoms gradually worsen over several years.

Highlight: During the preclinical stage, while patients appear symptom-free, significant brain changes are already occurring through protein deposits and neuron death.

Example: Early symptoms can include confusion, disorientation, and getting lost in familiar places, often mistaken for normal aging.

Vocabulary: Amyloid plaques and tau tangles are abnormal protein deposits that form throughout the brain, leading to neuron death.