Alzheimer’s Onsent Symptoms; Understanding the Signs
Early on-set Alzheimer’s according to Mayo Clinic is an infrequent form of dementia that often strikes people who are under the age of 65. Five percent of all people with Alzheimer’s disease developed symptoms before the age of 65. Early-onset Alzheimer’s symptoms develop between the ages of 40 and 50.
It is common for early-onset Alzheimer’s symptoms to be misdiagnosed since many family members and health care providers often confuse it with either a different illness or condition. To ensure one gets the most appropriate treatment in the early stages, it is important that there is an accurate diagnosis.
Identifying the Signs and Symptoms of Early-Onset Alzheimer’s
Symptoms of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease share many similarities with those of late-onset Alzheimer’s. These symptoms include mood swings, memory issues, low energy, difficulty in speech and attention deficit problems.
One distinct symptom among those with early-onset Alzheimer’s is that they are more likely to develop memory problems in the later advancing stages of the disease. Memory loss among those with early-onset Alzheimer’s is also less severe.
Early-Onset Alzheimer’s: Slowing Down Its Progression
At the moment, there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, for those who have been diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s, there are things one can do to slow down its progression. Incorporating these changes can change the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Regular Exercise
Regular exercise has been shown to help reduce the development of Alzheimer’s. In some instances, it prevents the progress of the disease. Moderately vigorous aerobic exercises are recommended three to four times a week. - Consuming a Mediterranean diet
What is a Mediterranean diet? It is a diet that consists of whole grains, legumes, olive oil, nuts, fresh vegetables and fruits. Taking moderate amounts of dairy, eggs, poultry and red wine is also recommended. A Mediterranean diet will promote brain health. - Sleep
Sleep helps in stress reduction and is further linked to greater amyloid clearance. Alzheimer’s disease results to the accumulation of amyloid plaques between nerve cells located in the brain. Seven to eight hours of sleep every day will result in more clearance of the amyloid plaques. Find a regular sleep schedule. Remember to avoid taking caffeine before bedtime and reading a book in order to unwind will definitely be of help. - Social Interactions
The early phases of Alzheimer’s come with a burden. Social interactions with family, friends and colleagues helps to reduce this burden. To maintain that sense of connection, it is also important to stay around people who encourage you and engage in activities that give you a sense of purpose. - Pursue Alternatives
There are various alternatives that have also been shown to slow down the progress of early-onset Alzheimer’s that you could explore including cognitive learning programs, antioxidant therapy and cardiovascular health and diabetes. - Pharmaceuticals
There are various medications available today that may assist in reducing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s including Namenda ® (memantine), Aricept ® (donepezil), Galantamine and Rivastigmine. It is not a guarantee that the drugs will work but they have been shown to offer years’ worth of symptomatic relief to some patients. - Join a Help/Support Group
You may be surprised that there are other people out there going through a similar experience of early-onset Alzheimer’s. It will help when you interact with others and get the moral support needed. Check online to find support groups near you. - Adjust Your Work Schedule
If you have just realized that you have early on-set Alzheimer’s or your body may be indicating such symptoms, adjust your work schedule. Options include reducing your workload and if you are nearing the age of retirement, you can opt for early retirement.