Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s

Eight Early Symptoms of Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that causes memory, thinking and behavior problems. Symptoms usually develop slowly and worsen over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. While no one symptom definitively indicates Alzheimer’s disease, here are eight early signs that may indicate that your loved one may have this condition.

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life

One of the most common early symptoms of Alzheimer’s is forgetting recently learned information. As Alzheimer’s progresses, patients experience greater memory loss and confusion. They also may misplace objects and forget their personal items. Alzheimer’s patients also may have difficulty remembering the names of people they know well such as family members or friends.

2. Challenges with planning or solving problems

People with Alzheimer’s may experience difficulties when trying to complete familiar tasks. They may have trouble following instructions when using a new product or recipe. They may also have difficulty understanding a map or keeping track of a budget.

3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks

As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, people may find it hard to complete daily tasks such as getting dressed in the morning or eating breakfast. They also may have trouble keeping track of medications or paying bills. Alzheimer’s also may cause people to have difficulty driving, writing or using the phone.

4. Confusion about time or place

Alzheimer’s patients may sometimes have trouble understanding what day it is or where they are. They may lose track of the date or the season. They also may forget where they are supposed to be going, how they got there or why they are there.

5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

People with Alzheimer’s disease also may have difficulty reading, judging distance and determining color or contrast. As Alzheimer’s progresses, people may experience changes in vision such as problems seeing in low light or at night.

6. New problems with words in speaking or writing

People with Alzheimer’s may have trouble following or joining a conversation. They may start to repeat themselves or make up words that sound real but have no meaning. Eventually, those with Alzheimer’s may lose the ability to speak and write coherently.

7. Withdrawing from work or social activities

A person with Alzheimer’s may start withdrawing from hobbies, social activities, work projects or sports. They may have trouble keeping up with a favorite team or remembering how to complete a favorite hobby. As Alzheimer’s progresses, people may begin to isolate themselves and become increasingly introverted.

8. Changes in mood and personality

People with Alzheimer’s disease may experience mood swings and changes in personality. They may become easily upset, anxious or angry. They also may become suspicious or paranoid. In later stages of the disease, people may experience delusions or hallucinations.

Alzheimer’s disease can be devastating for the person with the condition and for their family and friends. If you or someone you know is showing these signs, it’s important to see a doctor for a diagnosis.

Primary and Specialty Care in Ohio

Early diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease is a team effort that involves medical professionals, caregivers and support services. Southwest General Medical Group, Inc. includes both primary care and specialty care physicians who are committed to providing patients with high-quality medical care. To learn more about our primary and specialty care services or schedule an appointment, visit our website.