Alzheimer's Disease is a progressive brain disorder that is considered the most common form of dementia. Worldwide, it affects over 55 million people. According to data trends, that number is expected to double every 20 years — reaching 78 million by 2030 and 139 million by 2050.
Although this disease mostly affects people over the age of 65, there is a growing awareness of early-onset Alzheimer’s — with the youngest reported case being a 19-year-old patient.
Recognizing the symptoms of this disease early on is critical for both patients and their families. Early detection leads to early treatment, which can slow the disease's progression and improve the quality of life of those who have this disease.
Continue reading to learn the top five warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease and where to find the best Alzheimer’s doctor in Los Angeles.
What Is Alzheimer's Disease?
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive disorder that affects the brain by causing damage to nerve cells. It is known for causing problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. Early symptoms may be difficult to recognize as more than just normal forgetfulness. However, as the disease progresses, it can interfere with daily activities and eventually lead to death.
The exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is not yet known, but researchers believe that it is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Some of the risk factors for Alzheimer's include age, family history, head injuries, and certain health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Preventing Alzheimer’s includes taking good care of your health by maintaining a healthy weight, managing your blood pressure, and quitting smoking if you do.
5 Early Warning Signs Of Alzheimer's
Recognizing the early symptoms can greatly affect its progression, as current treatment options show the best effectiveness with mild symptoms. Alzheimer’s symptoms to look out for include:
1. Memory Problems That Disrupts Daily Life
One of the most common dementia symptoms is memory loss or confusion which interferes with daily life. This may include forgetting important dates or events, repeatedly asking for the same information, or relying on memory aids like notes or reminders to complete tasks.
While it's normal to forget things occasionally, if you notice a pattern of forgetfulness interfering with your daily routine, it could be an early sign of Alzheimer’s.
2. Struggling to Solve Problems or Perform Familiar Tasks
As this disease progresses, it may become increasingly difficult to solve problems or perform familiar tasks. This may include things like managing finances, following a recipe, or playing a favorite game. There may also be difficulty with abstract thinking, such as understanding jokes or metaphors.
3. Struggling to Understand Spatial Relations and Judge Distance
Another early warning sign is difficulty with depth perception and distance judgment. This may appear as having difficulty driving or navigating familiar routes. Other tasks that require spatial awareness, such as packing a suitcase or organizing a closet, may also become difficult.
4. Decreased or Poor Judgment
As Alzheimer's progresses, there is usually a decrease in the ability to make good judgment calls. This may manifest by making poor decisions with money, neglecting personal hygiene, or falling for scams or frauds.
5. Withdrawal From Social Activities and Mood Changes
The last common warning sign is withdrawing from work or social activities or experiencing changes in mood or personality. This may include things like:
- Losing interest in hobbies or activities that were once enjoyed
- Withdrawing from social situations or saying inappropriate things
- Changes in mood or personality
- Having difficulty with work-related tasks, especially if they require decisions and problem-solving
Remember, while the symptoms and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s are scary, there is evidence of how well early treatment can help manage symptoms and slow progression.
Latest Alzheimer's Treatment Options in Los Angeles
One of the most common questions we get at LA Neurology is, “How is Alzheimer’s treated?” While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer's, there are FDA-approved treatments that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The most common Alzhiemer’s treatments include:
- Cholinesterase inhibitors improve the communication between nerve cells — thus improving memory, thinking, and behavior.
- Memantine regulates the production of glutamate, a chemical that can be overproduced in Alzheimer’s patients and can be harmful to brain cells when in excess.
- Aducanumab reduces the excess of beta-amyloid that builds up in the brain of people with Alzheimer’s and contributes to nerve cell death. This is a newly FDA-approved medication that is typically given as an infusion.
In addition to these medications, non-pharmacological treatments, such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, and support groups, can help manage symptoms of Alzheimer's. Seeing the best neurologist in Los Angeles can ensure that you or your loved one receives the most advanced treatments.
Where to Find the Best Alzheimer’s Treatment in LA
Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, there are several treatment options that can help restore a good quality of life and significantly slow the progression of this disease.
Dr. Danny Benmoshe and the team at Los Angeles Neurology take a special interest in providing cutting-edge treatment to Alzheimer’s patients in Los Angeles — including aducanumab infusions that can be done at our state-of-the-art infusion clinic.
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