Alzheimer's Disease is a degenerative brain disease that causes brain tissue to degrade over time, resulting in memory loss, confusion, mood swings and feeling of disorientation. People with Alzheimer's may struggle to remember recent events, have trouble focusing and even experience physical problems, such as poor coordination and difficulty walking. 

Early warning signs include memory loss, behavior changes and trouble with speech, but symptoms are easily confused with other conditions, particularly as elderly patients - who are more likely to have or develop other medical issues - are more likely to develop Alzheimer's. Consequently, it is important to visit a physician if you or a loved on manifests symptoms that may be Alzheimer's. 

While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer's, there are treatments for many of the symptoms, and understanding the condition is the first step in helping a loved one cope with the disease. 

Drug classes sometimes used to treat Alzheimer's disease include cholinesterase inhibitors such as Aricept (donepezil) and other anti-Alzheimer products, for example Namenda (memantine) and other medication to treat dementia.