| Alzheimer's Early Warning Signs Often Overlooked, Misunderstood |  |
A new report released as part of National Alzheimer's Awareness
Month contends that most family members miss early signs of
Alzheimer's Disease in a loved one -- simply because they don't know
what they should be looking for.
Early warning signs, or "markers" of Alzheimer's can be subtle,
appearing months or even years before memory loss and other clinical
symptoms are apparent. However, these are often misunderstood or
unrecognized by family and friends. Signs include:
1) Depression: Over 50% of all Alzheimer's patients exhibit symptoms
of clinical depression, up to two years before memory loss is
apparent.
2) Loss of the sense of smell: The affected person's ability to
discern odors may decrease dramatically, though they are usually
unaware of it. Their sense of taste usually remains intact.
3) Hearing loss: Signs include turning up the TV too loud, avoiding
use of the phone, and withdrawal from conversations.
4) Visual / Spatial Impairment: The person affected may have
difficulty recalling visual details about objects and locations, or
problems following maps and directions.
5) Unusual fingerprint patterns: Up to 75% of people who develop
Alzheimer's have an abnormal number of ulnar loop patterns on their
fingertips. These are similar to patterns found on Down's Syndrome
patients, suggesting that some people may have a genetic
predisposition to Alzheimer's.
The complete report, "How to Tell if Your Loved One May Be Getting
Alzheimer's" may be viewed online at http://www.alzhelp.com .
With over 4 million older Americans suffering from Alzheimer's
Disease, National Alzheimer's Awareness Month is observed each
November to help friends and family become better informed about this
disease. Recognizing early indicators of potential Alzheimer's
related problems is vital, because the sooner an individual is
diagnosed and treatment is started, the better their chances for a
longer, healthier life.
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