Alzheimer's is one of those difficult-to-diagnose diseases like MS that is easier to tell what it isn't than what it is. Because in its early stages it is often mistaken for depression, there are a few signs that can be helpful in deciding whether further medical workups and diagnostics are warranted.
Features
Symptoms that Alzheimer's and depression share include loss of interest in activities, withdrawal from society, memory problems, sleep pattern changes and difficulty in concentrating. But with Alzheimer's there is more pronounced memory and cognitive function loss than with depression.
Misconceptions
Early signs of Alzheimer's that many people are aware of include forgetfulness of recently learned items (names, dates and appointments) and a lack of ability to concentrate and solve problems. But other signs may be less recognizable. Lapses in conversation or understanding visual images that had been no trouble before are each indicative of early stage Alzheimer's. Disorientation of time and place and misplacing things like your car keys may also indicate onset.
Effects
More complex changes in Alzheimer's onset include poor decision making and altered personality indicators. A formerly outgoing person may become withdrawn and someone who's always been easygoing may become irritable and difficult.
Significance
Counseling and staying as active as possible have each shown benefit in fending off Alzheimer's. But most often, medication is prescribed. While taking note of early onset symptoms of Alzheimer's, any further discovery should be with a doctor's oversight.
Considerations
According to Mayo Clinic staff, it can be difficult to tell the difference between Alzheimer's and depression, and 40 percent of Alzheimer's patients also are diagnosed with depression. Medications to correct the effects of depression can be quite effective, but medications for Alzheimer's can only slow down the eventual cognitive slide.
