A doctor has highlighted some early warning signs that could indicate the onset of dementia, including some that may appear before memory loss
A GP has warned there are some early warning signs of dementia that may be apparent even before memory problems begin. Dementia is a progressive illness that impacts brain function, causing a deterioration in cognitive abilities such as memory and reasoning, alongside speech and emotions as time goes on.
Studies reveal there are more than 944,000 people in the UK who suffer from dementia. One in 11 people over the age of 65 have dementia in the UK.
The number of people with dementia is rising because people are living longer, reports Surrey Live. Whilst there is no cure, it’s vital to diagnose the illness swiftly so that a treatment plan and medications can be established to manage symptoms effectively.
Dr Johannes Uys, from Broadgate General Practice in London, has identified several early warning signs that could signal the beginning of dementia. Whilst many people link memory difficulties with dementia, Dr Uys suggests that physical symptoms can also emerge before memory loss in some instances.
He revealed four early signs to watch out for, which are more frequently associated with certain types of dementia, such as Parkinson’s disease dementia. The expert also stressed that symptoms differ from person to person, with each individual experiencing dementia in their own way.
“However, if you notice any of these early signs in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation,” he said.
“Early detection and intervention can help manage symptoms and provide the necessary support”, he added. Dementia risk factors are a mixed bag, with some being unavoidable like age, while others can be managed through lifestyle modifications in our younger years.
Regular exercise and a balanced diet are known to lower the risk. Other beneficial changes include maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption and cholesterol levels.
The NHS suggests that cutting down on saturated fats, salt, and sugar, and increasing fibre intake could also help. The GP went on to share these four early signs to look out for:.
- an unsteady gait
- clumsiness
- difficulty with coordination
- tremors or stiffness in the limbs
Early diagnosis of dementia allows for prompt support to patients. However, a recent Alzheimer’s Society survey reveals that only one in three people consult a doctor within the first month of noticing dementia symptoms in themselves or a loved one.
A poll involving 1,100 individuals showed that most people hesitate to seek help due to uncertainty about whether the symptoms are related to the condition or just signs of ageing. It’s crucial to remember that dementia is not a natural part of ageing, and if you’re becoming increasingly forgetful, especially if you’re over 65, it’s advisable to consult your GP.
Experts predict that by 2050, a staggering 150 million people worldwide will be affected by the condition, according to research published in the Lancet Public Health. Currently, around 900,000 people in the UK are living with it.