Brain disorders Flashcards
What are the symptoms of Alzheimer’s?
- forget about recent conversations
- misplace items
- forgetting the names of places and objects
What neurotransmitters are affected in Alzheimer’s?
- reduced concentration of acetylcholine in hippocampus and neocortex, caused by degeneration of cholinergic neuron
- acetylcholine is essential in learning and memory
What drug treatment can be used for Alzheimers?
drugs that mimic or increase levels of acetylcholine
What are the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease
- muscle stiffness
- tremors of the hand in particular
What neurotransmitters are affected in Parkinson’s disease?
Lack of the neurotransmitter dopamine which is responsible for relaying messages that plan and control body movement
What drug treatment can be used for Parkinson’s?
drugs that increase levels of dopamine
What are the symptoms of depression?
- continuous low mood or sadness
- irritable
- tiredness
What neurotransmitters are affected in depression?
lack of the neurotransmitter serotonin which is responsible for stabilising moods and feeling of happiness
What drug treatment can be used to treat depression?
Antidepressants like SSRI’S that increase levels of serotonin
