Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disorder that causes brain cells to waste away (degenerate) and die. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia — a continuous decline in thinking, behavioral and social skills that disrupts a person’s ability to function independently.
Alzheimer’s is evaluated by identifying certain symptoms and ruling out other possible causes of dementia. Your doctor will likely perform a complete medical exam, including neurological, blood and brain imaging exams, such as CT, MRI or PET/CT of the head. There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, your doctor may prescribe medication to slow the disease’s progression and manage your symptoms.