Signs of dementia can appear 18 years before diagnosis: Study

Dementia refers to a bunch of symptoms which range from amnesia to impaired thinking and problem-solving abilities that typically affect old people. Dementia may be a general disease but could  be caused by other illnesses. It is not a particular disease, rather it consists of many other medical conditions. Alzheimer’s disease is the commonest explanation for progressive dementia. 

As of now, there’s no real cure for dementia, however, scientific findings suggest it can be detected early.  A study involving over 2,000 people showed that memory and thinking tests can reveal differences in those who develop Alzheimer’s disease up to 18 years before diagnosis. 

According to the test that was completed 13-18 years before the study ended, a lower score in cognitive tests was linked to an 85 percent higher risk of possible dementia. This also indicates that the onset of Alzheimer’s disease may start a few years before diagnosis. 

According to Doug Brown, former director of research and development at Alzheimer’s Society, “Dementia often causes changes within the brain years before the symptoms become apparent. This study shows that there are also subtle indications of Alzheimer’s in thinking and memory as many as 18 years before a proper diagnosis could happen.” He clarified that these tests might not accurately predict who would develop dementia, but could indicate those that were more prone to the illness. 

There are different variations of dementia symptoms. Some are defined by the cognitive changes, while others are determined by the psychological changes. Symptoms related to cognitive changes are: 

Loss of memory 

Difficulty finding words or completing a sentence 

Inability to unravel problems 

Difficulty with coordination 

Confusion 

While being old causes you to be more at risk of Alzheimer’s disease, experts claim the risks may be reduced with regular exercise, healthy eating and staying happy. 

Working out regularly and keeping yourself fit causes you to be less liable to dementia and also keeps stress and anxiety in check. This in turn reduces risk of heart ailments and other chronic illnesses.