Five Signs Of Dementia To Spot Early

Apr 11, 2018

Memory loss is often viewed as simply a sign of getting older and see it as something to be expected especially in the elderly. This is not necessarily the case as memory loss can be a symptom of dementia or any number of other health issues.

Dementia is defined as a persistent disorder of mental abilities caused by brain disease or even injury. It can be accompanied by memory disorders personality changes, and impaired reasoning as well. It is extremely important for anyone suspects dementia in themselves or a loved one to see an experienced doctor for a complete diagnosis.

Different types of dementia affect the estimated 47 million people worldwide suffering from it in many different ways. Many people disregard the early symptoms because of the wide variation in symptoms. However, early detection leads to early treatment that may slow down the symptoms and improve the quality of life. 
 

The most commonly recognized symptom of dementia and Alzheimer’s is memory loss. Doctors can identify Alzheimer’s memory loss because it is a specific type of short-term memory loss while the long-term memory is still sharp. Alzheimer’s prevents the brain from encoding memories so there is nothing stored. This is why patients often ask the same question repeatedly. Other types of dementia keep patients from recalling memories. The memories are still stored in the brain, they just cannot be retrieved. The type of memory loss is a key factor in distinguishing a diagnosis of either Alzheimer’s or dementia. 

Many times a dementia patient will have such drastic mood swings that it can be scary for family and friends. The mood swings affect each person differently and may result in depression or the amplification of personality traits like being overly bossy. The mood changes are different depending on the type of dementia. With vascular dementia, a patient is more likely to have apathy and depression while Alzheimer’s patients often become insensitive to the needs of others. 

During brain degeneration, the neural pathways are damaged and this caused patients to have trouble concentrating on directions. They may become confused trying to complete daily household chores. When patients no longer recognize the faces of loved ones that can be a troubling development that occurs along with difficulty following directions and completing tasks.

Dementia patients may have trouble with aphasia, difficulty producing language or understanding others when they speak. The specific nature of the language problems can assist doctors in determining the type of dementia the patient is suffering from. 

Dementia symptoms can be ascribed to other health problems and doctors will look at all symptoms to make a diagnosis. They may even order imaging studies to look for brain damage. Early detection is essential and a visit to a health-care professional is the place to start if early signs of dementia have manifested. 

If you have noticed any of these symptoms in yourself or a loved one it is important to be informed and to help others be informed. Memory loss can be a symptom of different types of health problems. Research information and learn as much as possible and contact a healthcare professional for further guidance.

Our content is created to the best of our knowledge, yet it is of general nature and cannot in any way substitute an individual consultation by your doctor. Your health is important to us!