It is challenging to navigate in the thick fog that surrounds you or your loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. The familiar tasks that you used to enjoy would become shrouded in confusion. Even the cherished memories that we held dear also slip through your fingers like sand as the condition progressively declines. Unfortunately, we do not have effective medicines to manage or treat the condition. But there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon in the face of stem cell therapy. Doctors and scientists are even trying to explore the use of stem cells to see if they can be used to turn back time and help us live a more cherished life with our family.
Stem Cell Therapy’s Potential
You can think of stem cells as the body’s master builders. These master builders are special cells that can differentiate into other cells with specialized functions, including the nerve cells damaged by the relentless developmental march of Alzheimer’s. Even though it will not return the memories, it allows the individual to be present in the moment and create new memories. It is like a gentle nudge from the body to help your brain regenerate and create new connections between neurons. Stem cells are also very efficient at secreting anti-inflammatory molecules that act as neuroprotectants for any damage that can occur due to Alzheimer’s.
Why is Stem Cell Therapy Different?
Traditional treatments for Alzheimer’s include the use of a combination of medication and exercise. In this method, individuals are kept active to ensure that their brains remain active and use various parts of the brain. As the condition presents itself in a unique manner in each case, the doctors like to personalize the treatment for each case. The hallmark of Alzheimer’s is the buildup of protein plaques and tangles in the brain. We still lack the ability to remove these structures from the brain tissues.
However, stem cells may be able to help clear these harmful depositions or even encourage the production of enzymes that naturally break them down. It sounds like a miracle cure, right? Due to this, scientists are exploring the avenues of this field to find out how we can stimulate stem cells to do the same. There are several studies in progress that have shown and are regularly showing that stem cells are safe and are becoming effective in halting the progress of the condition. All these factors will lead to a more sustainable improvement in cognitive function, allowing you to regain a sense of control over your daily life.
Outcomes of Stem Cell Therapy
In clinical studies and certin individual cases, the success rate of stem cell therapy for Alzheimer’s ranges from 65% to 85%. Even though it does not cure the condition, it helps to manage it more effectively. They show well-improved results, like
- Steady improvement of cognitive functions
- Enhanced psychosocial banality
- Improved short term memory
- Improved ability to do functional work
- A halt in the decline of disease progression
- Improved sense of presence
- Good control over moodiness
- Better coordination
For Query Ask The Expert
Mrigen’s Story is a Ray of Hope for Effectively Managing Alzheimer’s
Mrigen Sharma, a 70 year old German, traveled to Delhi after living six years with Alzheimer’s disease. What started with a simple act of forgetfulness morphed into aggressive behavior. His family members were in constant fear of him wandering off. The family sought help from doctors, only to come to the reality that there is no cure and the condition will progressively get worse. Medication provided a brief respite, but it offered little solace.
An MRI revealed the early stages of brain shrinkage, a stark reminder of the disease’s progression. Mrigen’s family delved deeper into the world of medical advancements. Their relentless search for alternative medicine to help Mrigen landed them on stem cell therapy. Mrigen underwent a comprehensive physical examination, including radiological and pathological tests. With both the doctors and the family confident in his suitability, they decided to proceed with the therapy.
He was given a single dose of umbilical cord tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) administered through a lumbar puncture (LP) and intravenously. The procedure went smoothly, and Mrigen spent a night under observation before a happy discharge with instructions for the next six months.
Six months later, Mrigen returned for a follow-up, and the improvement was undeniable. A newfound physical vitality and mental clarity were evident. Mrigen’s aggressive tendencies vanished. He no longer exhibited the urge to wander off, and his memory function showed signs of improvement. A cheerful and jovial spirit replaced the previous despair.
A Brighter Future Lies Ahead
Alzheimer’s is a devastating condition that leaves millions in care homes and leaves families devastated. While there is no cure and therapeutic medication stops being effective after a certain time, It is increasingly becoming necessary that we look for alternative medication options. To relieve patients from the fog of forgetfulness, scientists are exploring the role of stem cells in their effectiveness. Several types of stem cells have been found safe for treatment, but they are still not a cure for the condition. But, yes, stem cell therapy has helped many people halt the progression of their symptoms and live a more fulfilling life. While you wait for further development, embrace the journey you’re on. Stay connected with loved ones, engage in activities you enjoy, and find joy in the simple things.
You are not alone in this fight, and there’s a new dawn of hope on the horizon.
FAQs
How is Alzheimer’s Diagnosed?
The only way to diagnose is to confirm the formation of plaque in the brain. A simple way to do so would be to do a cerebral biopsy, but it is not necessary that we see those plaques. Hence, doctors use a combination of the following methods:
- They ask for overall health, memory problems, changes in behavior or personality, and a family history of dementia.
- Next, they evaluate your reflexes, memory, and ability to perform daily activities.
- Brain scans Like MRI and CT scans, they can help your doctor identify abnormalities like strokes and tumors by looking at the structure of the tissue.
- In some cases, cerebrospinal fluid analysis is done to check the proteins that are associated with Alzheimer’s.
However, your doctor will do a thorough examination of your condition and then make a decision. Sometimes, diagnosing the condition might take as long as a week.
Why is a Combination of Different Diagnostic Tools Used for Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s is a complex condition, and there is no one definitive symptom for it. Doctors have to look for and eliminate all the potential conditions that can give rise to similar symptoms. It is due to this factor that an accurate diagnosis requires the use of different diagnotic methods.
Is There a Cure for Alzheimer’s?
Unfortunately, there is no cure at the moment. Fortunately, there are medications that can effectively manage symptoms and potentially slow down cognitive decline in certain situations.
Can Alzheimer’s be Prevented?
There’s no way to be sure that doing these activities will keep you from getting Alzheimer’s. However, people who live a healthy life by eating well, exercising regularly, keeping their minds active, and spending time with friends and family are less likely to get Alzheimer’s, even if there are familial cases.
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