Alzheimer's disease is a devastating diagnosis for both the patient and her family. This progressive and fatal disease is caused when brain cells are damaged. While a cure is being sought, there are treatment options to help manage the symptoms. As with many conditions, the earlier treatment starts the better. The first step is to be aware of the early signs and symptoms, so you can take steps to manage your health. You must learn to distinguish normal forgetfulness with actual memory loss.
General Memory Loss
According to the Alzheimer's Association, this disease usually progresses in stages. These stages can help your health care team determine if you are just developing this condition, or are in an advanced stage. They claim that one of the earliest signs is a minor loss of memory. You may be unable to recall words, constantly misplace objects and have a hard time recalling names. At this stage your memory loss does not interfere with everyday life and may be unnoticeable by others. At this stage it may be dismissed as memory loss due to age.
Other Cognitive Changes
Other early signs include being unable to remember information you just read, having trouble performing work or family obligations, taking a longer than normal time to do everyday tasks and having difficulty with planning and organizing tasks. You may lose your short term memory and forget recent events. Mathematical tasks, such as balancing your checkbook, may become challenging.
Additional Signs
There may be a tendency to withdraw socially, especially in crowded or busy atmospheres. You may have difficulty carrying on a conversation, recalling the date or forget where you are and how to get home. There may be mood swings and a lack of interest in activities you normally enjoy.
