5 Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease
As of 2014, there were five million Americans with Alzheimer’s, and experts predict this will reach 14 million by 2060. With so many cases, it is wise to learn some early symptoms of Alzheimer’s. This improves the chances that you will spot the condition at its early stage, allowing you to get treatment sooner. This is particularly important as Alzheimer’s disease is the country’s sixth-leading cause of death.
With that in mind, what are the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease?
Memory Loss That Interferes
Memory loss is among the symptoms most commonly associated with Alzheimer’s. It is also one of the earlier signs to appear. In the early stages, it frequently shows up in the form of forgetting information that the patient recently learned. Patients may also repeat questions or forget important events or dates.
This type of memory loss contrasts with normal age-related memory loss in one crucial way. It is normal to occasionally forget things as long as the patient remembers them later. By contrast, memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s is severe enough to interfere with daily life.
Difficulty Performing Daily Tasks
Another early sign of Alzheimer’s is experiencing difficulties in completing daily tasks or activities. One example would be forgetting how to play a favorite game. Another would be having issues driving to a place gone to regularly. Yet another is having problems organizing the grocery list.
Decreased Judgement
Those who need Alzheimer’s treatment in Brooklyn, NY, may also have issues with decision-making and making good choices. This can include not paying as much attention to hygiene. It can also show as getting worse in handling money.
As with most of the other early signs of Alzheimer’s, the occasional poor judgment is not a concern. It becomes an indication of Alzheimer’s when it becomes common.
New Issues With Words
It is normal to occasionally forget a word or struggle to find the right one. However, you may want to visit one of the top neurologists in Brooklyn, NY, if you or a loved one frequently has problems. These issues can arise when talking or speaking and become a concern when they start to appear regularly. An example would be using an incorrect name or stopping mid-sentence because you cannot find the word.
Changes to Personality
Someone with Alzheimer’s may also start to experience changes to their personality or mood. It is common to get more easily upset and feel anxious, fearful, suspicious, confused, or depressed.
These personality changes are different from age-related irritability and routine. It is common for healthy people to have specific routines and get frustrated when that routine changes. Those with Alzheimer’s may experience that in addition to other changes in their personality.
Other Early Signs to Look Out For
In addition to all of the above, you should be on the lookout for the following early indications of Alzheimer’s disease:
- Withdrawing from social activities
- Misplacing things
- Not being able to retrace steps
- Not understanding spatial relationships
- Being confused about the place or time
- Having troubles solving problems or planning
Choose an Alzheimer’s Specialist
Top neurologists in Brooklyn, NY, can confirm that these symptoms are due to Alzheimer’s. They will conduct various tests to rule out other potential health issues.
If you or a loved one is experiencing any early signs of Alzheimer’s, contact Metro Healthcare Partners for testing, diagnosis, and treatment.
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