The killing off of brain cells is an inevitable part of Alzheimer's progression. The cells, most of which are neurons, start to degenerate until you lose them completely. So in the most constructive way possible, let’s explain how this happens:
- Brain tissues shrink: This is particularly prevalent in the areas of the brain that have to do with emotion, cognition, and memory. Because you lose so many neurons (aka cells that use electrical and chemical signals to communicate with the rest of your body), the rest of the cells in your brain start to atrophy.
- Plaque and tangles form: One of the defining characteristics of Alzheimer’s disease is the formation of beta-amyloid proteins in your brain. These small pieces of protein can form clumps that disrupt your brain's functioning and cause cell death. Neurofibrillary tangles also form inside the brain when you have Alzheimer's. This creates twisted strands of tau protein that also interrupt neuron functioning.
- Inflammation occurs: When these disruptive proteins form in your brain, inflammatory molecules are released. This can magnify the progression of Alzheimer's.