Is Alzheimer’s hereditary? – Your Health

Alzheimer’s is not normally hereditary, but there is a form known as familial Alzheimer’s disease, which can affect different generations of the same family. However, this form of Alzheimer’s represents less than 0.5% of cases and can lead to the development of symptoms earlier.

Even when there is one or more cases of Alzheimer’s in the family, this does not mean that the rest of the members will develop the disease. Furthermore, the risk of developing Alzheimer’s is also influenced by the person’s health history, being higher in cases of stroke, depression and smoking, for example.

Although it is rare, if a familial form of Alzheimer’s is suspected, especially if the person is young, it is important to consult a neurologist. In these cases, genetic tests may be indicated to confirm the diagnosis. Check out what early Alzheimer’s disease is.

Or what causes Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s is caused by the abnormal accumulation of some types of proteins in the brain, which happens especially when there are genetic changes that favor its development. However, alone, these changes usually do not cause the disease. Its appearance is also influenced by each person’s health history.

The risk of Alzheimer’s is greater in the case of head trauma, due to accidents or blows to the head, for example, depression, heart problems, stroke, smoking and a family history of dementia.

Online test for Alzheimer’s

If you suspect Alzheimer’s, take the following test and find out your risk:

How to prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s

To prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s it is important to keep the brain active and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Therefore, it is recommended:

• Do activities that stimulate the brainsuch as learning another language, playing musical instruments, playing chess or reading, for example;
• Have a healthy eatingavoiding fried or high-fat foods, giving preference to white meat, fish with omega 3, fruits and vegetables;
• Keep blood pressure and blood sugar controlledavoiding eating very salty or sweet foods;
• Exercise 30 minutes a day 3 to 4 times a weeksuch as walking, running, dancing or swimming;
• Sleep at least 8 hours per night and avoid excess stress during the day;
• Go out with friends or participate in group activitiesat least 2 times a week.

These tips are especially important for people who have a family history of Alzheimer’s or who have genes that increase the risk of developing the disease. Understand better what Alzheimer’s is and its causes.