Alzheimer’s is a disease of the brain, characterized by issues with memory, thinking and behavior. It’s the most common cause of dementia – the general term for cognitive problems severe enough to interfere with daily life – accounting for 60-80% of dementia cases.
According to a 2022 report from the Alzheimer’s Association, in the U.S., 6.5 million people 65 and older have Alzheimer’s disease – equating to approximately 1 in 9 people in that age group. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that worsens over time and has no cure, yet there are approved medical treatments.
Below are early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s to watch for in loved ones:
- Memory loss that interferes with normal life
- Trouble with solving problems, following instructions or completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with places, the passage of time and spatial perception
- Difficulty having conversations, writing and remembering simple words; this can lead to withdrawal from social life
- Putting things away incorrectly
- Poor decision-making, often with money or personal grooming
- Personality changes – becoming suspicious, fearful and easily upset
There is no single test to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. Doctors, including neurologists, geriatricians, psychiatrists and more, use a variety of assessments to help make a differential diagnosis – essentially ruling out other possible causes of symptoms. Evaluations often include a medical history review, physical exam, neuropsychological testing and brain imaging scans.
According to neurologist Aimee Chagnon, MD, people worry about offending their doctors by bringing up second opinions. However, good doctors won’t feel insulted. Dr. Chagnon notes, “I don’t want anyone to have any kind of lingering doubt or question whether they could have done something different.”
Additionally, different types of dementia often look the same on the surface. Symptoms similar to Alzheimer’s can appear with Lewy body dementia, Parkinson’s, hydrocephalus, psychiatric issues, thyroid problems, vitamin deficiency, tumors and Lyme disease.
In short, it’s smart to seek a second opinion regarding any serious medical condition. Contact us if you’re concerned about a recent brain health diagnosis for yourself or a family member.
