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Alzheimer`s Disease/infections and alzheimer's
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Question
Why is infection the highest cause of death for patients with alzheimer's? I guess I would have thought brain deterioration would lead to lessened involuntary functions, such as breathing heartbeat, etc.
Hi Nancy, Because as the disease progresses it destroys the autoimmune system in the brain which makes them unable to fight infections. When they can't fight infections the infection kills them.
The deterioration does lead to the things you mention as well. Paula
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Questioner's Rating
| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thank You, Paula. You answered my question very clearly. Now I have a better understanding of the physiology of advanced Alzheimer's. | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Paula Damgaard
Expertise
I can offer families and caregivers non-diagnostic answers to questions regarding the disease. I travel around the state giving courses on Alzheimer`s disease for nurses and CNA`s.
Experience
Past/Present clients
I have coordinated Alzheimer's Clinical drug trials since 1987. I have coordinated the Memory Disorders Clinic since it's inception 1994. I also have personnal experience from caring for my mother who died of AD 5/2000 and presently from caring for my mother in law who was diagnosed in March 2000.
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