What is Alzheimer's disease primarily known for affecting?

Alzheimer's disease is primarily known for affecting brain tissue, leading to significant cognitive decline, particularly in memory and reasoning skills. It is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of neurons and synapses, which results in the hallmark symptoms of memory loss, confusion, and changes in behavior and reasoning abilities. As the disease progresses, individuals experience difficulty with language, problem-solving, and completing everyday tasks.

The impact of Alzheimer's on brain structure includes the formation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, which disrupt communication between neurons and contribute to the death of brain cells. This deterioration of brain tissue is central to the pathology of Alzheimer's and underlies the cognitive symptoms that characterize the disease. Recognizing the specific areas of the brain affected can help in understanding the range of symptoms and the progression of cognitive decline experienced by individuals with this condition.