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Clinical manifestations of Alzheimer’s disease in different stages

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Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that leads to a gradual deterioration in cognitive and behavioral functions. The symptoms of this disease appear gradually and their severity varies depending on the stage the patient is going through. In this article, we will discuss in detail the clinical manifestations of Alzheimer’s disease in its various stages.

Early stage (light phase)

In the early stage, symptoms are mild and may be ignored at first. These symptoms include:

  • Memory difficulties: forgetting recent events, difficulty remembering names, and losing things.
  • Language difficulties: difficulty finding the right words, repeating the same sentences.
  • Problems with concentration and attention: difficulty following conversations, forgetting what the person was doing.
  • Minor changes in mood and behavior: social withdrawal, irritability, anxiety.

Middle School

Symptoms increase significantly at this stage and become more impactful on daily life. These symptoms include:

  • Significant memory deterioration: difficulty remembering past events, forgetting the names of family members and friends.
  • Problems with thinking and analysis: Difficulty making decisions, problem solving, and planning.
  • Language disorders: Difficulty understanding written and spoken language, difficulty expressing ideas.
  • Changes in behavior: aggression, agitation, depression, delusions and hallucinations.
  • Difficulties in performing daily activities: difficulty driving, cooking, and self-care.

Late stage

In the late stage, the patient becomes completely dependent on others for his daily needs. Symptoms at this stage include:

  • Complete memory loss: inability to recognize family members or friends.
  • Communication difficulties: loss of ability to speak or understand language.
  • Movement problems: Difficulty walking, standing, and swallowing.
  • Physical changes: weight loss, urinary tract infections, wounds.

Factors affecting the development of the disease

The speed of development of Alzheimer’s disease varies from person to person and is influenced by several factors, including:

  • Age: The risk of Alzheimer’s increases with age.
  • Genetic factors: Having a family history of the disease increases the risk.
  • Environmental factors: such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity.

diagnosis

Alzheimer’s disease is diagnosed based on the patient’s medical history, physical examination, and the results of psychological and neurological tests, such as:

  • Memory and thinking tests: to assess how the disease affects cognitive function.
  • Neurological examination: to assess reflexes and motor functions.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): to assess the size of the brain and determine the presence of any pathological changes.
  • Positron emission tomography (PET) scan: to measure brain activity and determine the presence of amyloid plaques.

Alzheimer’s disease is a complex and multifaceted disease. It begins with mild symptoms that gradually develop into more severe symptoms that affect all aspects of daily life. It is important to diagnose the disease in the early stages to start treatment and provide appropriate support to the patient and his family.

Note: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any concerns about your health, please consult your doctor.

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