Forgetfulness is not always the central sign of Alzheimer’s. Almost every second Alzheimer’s patient in the early stage is not noticed by gaps in memory, but by other symptoms. These warning signs indicate Alzheimer’s.
1. Affected people forget the meaning of words
If those affected can no longer express themselves correctly in a conversation, they fill the gaps with other, less suitable words and phrases, explains the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG). As a result, the conversation partners often hardly understand the person. However, problems of understanding can also arise for Alzheimer’s patients as the disease progresses. Because people with Alzheimer’s dementia simply forget the meaning of words.
2. Behavior and personality change
There are usually other symptoms, such as striking behavioral changes such as argument, hostility and distrust in formerly balanced people. Irritability, restlessness and nervousness also appear in the early stages of the disease. Many Alzheimer’s patients are also gradually losing interest in hobbies and activities.
3. Speech and vision disorders
A Spanish study showed that almost every second Alzheimer’s patient had no memory problems at first, but noticed differently: because of speech or vision problems or because he was no longer able to take on tasks and finish them.
A clear diagnosis is difficult
If in doubt, those affected should contact a doctor who will examine the blood and do a computed tomography of the brain. However, the disease can only be diagnosed with an 80 percent certainty. A clear diagnosis is only possible after the patient’s death. A brain exam can then show whether the patient actually had Alzheimer’s.
Preventing Alzheimer’s: memory training keeps you fit
a Alzheimer to prevent it is important to eat healthy, exercise and that brain to train. Even surfing the internet can help sufferers, researchers at the University of Los Angeles (UCLA) found. “Googling” an hour a day can therefore reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. But learning a foreign language or solving sudokus are also good measures to keep the gray matter fit.
Women are affected more often
Around 1.4 million people in Germany suffer dementiawhich can also result from a circulatory disorder or brain injury. Most of the time, the disease is reported to occur in people over 65 years of age. Women are affected far more often than men.
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Important NOTE: The information is by no means a substitute for professional advice or treatment by trained and recognized doctors. The content of t-online.de cannot and must not be used to independently make diagnoses or start treatments.
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