Alzheimer's disease is a dementia condition that affects many adults, especially those ages 65 and older. Alzheimer's is known for the memory loss, confusion and disorientation it causes. These problems can make daily life difficult. Alzheimer's progresses over time, and as it advances, symptoms develop and intensify. At first, the signs of the disease may be barely noticeable, especially to those who are not close to the sufferer. By the end, the patient may be unable to communicate with others and may lose touch with reality.
Unfortunately, there are no cures for this disease. However, treatment can improve quality of life and reduce the manifestation of symptoms. It can be difficult to face the idea that your loved one may have Alzheimer's, but if you suspect a problem, it is important to book a consultation with a physician. The following 10 symptoms are common among people with Alzheimer's. If you notice some of these signs in your loved one, have him or her evaluated by a doctor.
1. Depression
Alzheimer's disease and depression often go hand-in-hand. The symptoms of these two conditions can resemble one another, and they can also exacerbate each other. Commonly, depression first begins to develop in the early stages of Alzheimer's. After that, it can come and go throughout the course of the disease.
When a person feels depressed, he or she may be uninterested in participating in activities, and good eating habits can fall by the wayside. The person may harbor unpleasant emotions, including sadness, loneliness, feelings of worthlessness, and thoughts of suicide. This condition can make people feel extremely tired, but it can also make it hard to get good sleep. It can lead to random aches and other unexplainable physical complaints.
When symptoms are in full force, a person may have trouble focusing and concentrating. Memory lapses can be common. Since these are also standard symptoms of Alzheimer's, it can be hard to distinguish which conditions are causing which problems. A medical examination with input from both the patient and caregivers can help formulate a plan of treatment for both conditions. Getting treatment for the emotional illness can make it easier for a person to cope with the other changes that come along with dementia.
