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Alcohol & Alzheimer's

Alcoholism and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are both serious conditions. The full extent of the relationship between alcohol abuse and Alzheimer's disease is unknown. Knowing the exact relationship between AD and alcohol abuse is complicated by the fact both conditions have many similarities.

  1. Alzheimer's

    • Alzheimer's is a progressive disorder, most often found in senior citizens. Memory loss is the most common symptom of Alzheimer's disease.

    Alcoholism

    • Alcoholism is a disease where a person becomes dependent on alcohol. As a result the person comes to abuse alcohol in his daily life.

    The Connection

    • Long term alcohol abuse can cause brain damage. This makes alcoholism a possible risk factor for Alzheimer's disease.

    Consequences

    • Alcohol abuse can lead to alcohol dementia. Alcohol dementia is similar to Alzheimer's disease in the fact that memory and other cognitive functions are disturbed.

    Considerations

    • While alcohol abuse can increase your chances of getting Alzheimers, drinking alcohol casually can decrease chances of developing the disease. In this situation casual drinking would be considered no more than two alcoholic beverages a day.

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