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Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease

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Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease vary, but it is possible to distinguish a few general symptoms. 

Early stage
During the first two to four years, symptoms are slow and gradual and can be mistaken for the normal ageing process. This period is characterised by:

  • Early signs of memory loss, which may include forgetting names or events.
  • Disorientation and difficulty following directions. 
  • Changes in normal behaviour and personality.  
  • Inability to perform routine tasks.

Later stage
At this stage, people may suddenly:

  • Lose their inhibitions.
  • No longer be able to solve simple problems.
  • Experience difficulty with figures. 

Adapting to simple changes becomes a problem. The afflicted may become confused and disoriented. They may not know what month or year it is. They may not be able to accurately describe or correctly recall the name of a place they have recently visited.

Emotionally, Alzheimer's sufferers become increasingly suspicious and paranoid. They can no longer control their anger, frustration or inappropriate behaviour and become increasingly quarrelsome, irritable and agitated. They can also no longer dress appropriately and neglect their personal appearance.

Final stage
Severe impairment of intellectual abilities is typical in the final stage of Alzheimer’s disease. Physical functioning deteriorates and sufferers become incontinent (unable to control bowel and bladder function). They are erratic, inattentive and appear uncooperative. They can no longer engage in conversation. 

They are often not able to feed themselves and have to be fed. They become incapable of looking after themselves and may grow bedridden or wheelchair-bound.

When to see a doctor
If a family member or friend displays signs of Alzheimer’s disease over time, you must call your doctor. The person may have a lack of insight about the disease and may not know that he or she has the disease, denying the assistance of other people. The affected person may have to be persuaded to visit a doctor for help.


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