Abstract

Dr. Vinodini Payghan, Dr. Ratna Gadgil

ABSTRACT

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder in which a gradual memory decline, along with a loss of one area of higher intellectual function, is involved. The domains affected are cognition, daily functioning, and behavio r. The cognition includes memory orientation and judgment. Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia among middle aged and older adults. Although AD develops differently for every individual, there are many common symptoms. Early symptoms are often mistakenly thought to be 'age related' concerns or manifestations of stress. In the early stages, the most common symptom is difficulty in remembering recent events, known as short term memory loss. When AD is suspected, the diagnosis is usually con firmed with tests that evaluate behaviour and thinking abilities, often followed by a brain scan if available; however, examination of brain tissue is required for a definitive diagnosis. As the disease advances, symptoms can include confusion, irritabilit y, aggression, mood swings, trouble with language, and long term memory loss. As the person's condition declines, they often withdraw from family and society. Gradually, bodily functions are lost, ultimately leading to death. According to Ayurveda, the ac quisition of knowledge is a result of the successive and complex interaction and coordination of Atma, Indriyas (cognitive organs), Mana (psyche), and Indriyartha (sense organs). The functioning of these factors is governed by Tridosha (Vata, Pitta, and Ka pha) and Triguna (Sattva, Raja, and Tama) in a specific coordination and balance. Any disturbance in these Tridosha and Triguna will cause disordered functioning of Indriya (cognitive and motor organs), Mana (psyche), and Buddhi (intellect), leading to imp aired memory. Ayurvedic drugs can help manage Alzheimer’s by balancing the Tridosha and Triguna, and also by providing a medhya (intellect promoting) effect to improve patients' memory.