Brain Diseases
Brain disorders account for one-third of all chronic illnesses. What do we know about preventing, treating, and coping with brain diseases?
Recent Articles on Staying Sharp
Chronic Illness and the Brain
Brain diseases affect millions upon millions of people in the U.S.. and they affect not only those with chronic illnesses but also their families, friends, and colleagues.
Alzheimer’s Disease: Overview, Causes, and Symptoms (AD)
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, and it is among the most feared of all illnesses.
Alzheimer’s Disease: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Tips
Understanding the symptoms of AD can help you know when to seek a diagnosis and treatment for yourself or a loved one.
Parkinson’s Disease (PD)
Parkinson’s disease is a movement disorder that occurs when brain cells that make the chemical messenger called dopamine die over time.
Stroke
A stroke, or “brain attack,” occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted.
Lou Gehrig's Disease (ALS)
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)—also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease—is a rare condition in which nerve cells in parts of the brain die, leading to loss of muscle movement control.
Huntington’s Disease (HD)
Huntington’s disease is a rare inherited condition that causes involuntary movements, severe emotional disturbances, and a decline in mental functions.
Depression: Myths, Causes, and Types of Depressive Disorders
Learn about depression and the myths surrounding it, causes of depression, and the different types of depression.
Depression: Symptoms, Treatments, and Tips for Living with Depression
If you suspect you or someone you know is depressed, it’s important to seek treatment and to gain skills for living with depression on a daily basis.
Chronic Pain
This article offers more information about chronic pain, why pain is often undertreated, and what’s new in pain research.
Vision Loss
Learn about common forms of age-related vision loss and new research in the field.
Hearing Loss
Learn about hearing loss and new research in this field. Take a quiz to help you determine if you might be suffering from impaired hearing.
Living with Chronic Brain-Related Illness
If you (or a loved one) have been diagnosed with a chronic brain-related illness, these tips can help you better understand your illness, get proper medical care, and learn to monitor your health.
Caregivers and Chronic Brain-Related Illness
Learn how caregiving can affect your health and find tips for coping with caregiving, and specifically for caring for patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
Websites, Books and Organizations
Find useful resources to learn more about brain health in later life and to locate help and support.
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