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6 dementia symptoms that can show up years before a diagnosis
Yahoo • • health
Key Points:
- Alzheimer's disease progresses through three stages, with brain changes and protein buildup occurring 15 to 20 years before cognitive symptoms become apparent.
- Early noncognitive symptoms of Alzheimer's can include late-life depression and anxiety, increased apathy or irritability, sleep disturbances, loss of sense of smell, slower walking, and weaker handgrip strength.
- These neuropsychiatric and physical symptoms may appear years before a dementia diagnosis and serve as early warning signs, though they do not guarantee the development of dementia.
- Lifestyle changes such as exercise, a healthy diet, social engagement, brain games, and avoiding alcohol can reduce dementia risk, and new diagnostic tools can detect Alzheimer's biomarkers earlier to facilitate timely treatment.
- Experts advise consulting a doctor if these symptoms arise, as early evaluation can help distinguish between normal aging and potential neurological issues.
