Dementia is a neurological disorder that is oftentimes misdiagnosed. Since the changes come on gradually, most people suffering from this progressive disease may not realize that they are suffering until the symptoms are evident. Since the stages of the disease can vary, its slow progression can also give you or your parent time to receive an early diagnosis and possibly slow down or prevent its progression. Fortunately, many early signs of dementia can be identified before they start to impact the sufferer’s quality of life.
What are the Signs?
Dementia is when a person’s ability to think, remember and other behavioral abilities are impaired. There are a few signs that you will start to notice during the early stages. These signs include:
- Language skills
- Self-management
- Ability to focus
- Problem-solving
- Visual perception
People with dementia may also have a completely different personality and won’t be able to control their emotions. The severity of the disease can range from the mildest stage to the most severe stage. The mildest stage typically only affects mental functioning. Unfortunately, as the disease progresses, patients must rely on others for the most basic activities of living.
What are the Symptoms?
Aside from simple memory loss and the inability to pay attention, dementia has quite a few red-flag symptoms. As the disease worsens, you or your loved one may experience any of these symptoms:
- Apathy
- Confusion
- A difficulty with understanding simple conversations
- Loss of sense of direction
- Repetitiveness
- Struggling to adapt
All these symptoms and signs will only make themselves known once the healthy neurons in brain stop working, which results in them losing connection with the other brain cells. If the process is not slowed or halted, the cells eventually die.
Contact Our Office
Unfortunately, there is no cure for dementia as of now; however, due to the evolution of modern medicine and science, there are treatments available. Learn about the available options by scheduling a consultation at Radiantly Healthy MD in Indialantic. Contact us today to book your appointment.
