Symptoms & Signs
Forgetting recently learned information is an early example of this.
Short-term memory loss
This organ is primarily affected by Alzheimer’s disease.
The brain.
Doctors often begin diagnosing Alzheimer’s by reviewing this type of background information.
Medical history.
What is amnesia?
Memory loss
People with Alzheimer’s may lose track of this, including dates or seasons.
Time and place
Alzheimer’s mainly affects this type of ability, including remembering recent events.
Memory.
This type of exam checks reflexes, coordination, and balance to rule out other causes of symptoms.
Neurological exam.
What is aphasia?
Inability to express oneself through speech.
Mood changes like confusion, suspicion, or anxiety fall under this category.
Behavioral or personality changes.
This part of the brain, important for memory, is one of the first areas damaged.
The hippocampus.
A doctor may ask family members about changes in behavior and thinking to help make this type of evaluation.
Cognitive assessment.
What is anomia?
Inability to remember the name of things.
This stage of Alzheimer’s involves needing help with daily activities.
Terminal or late stage.
Alzheimer’s is classified as this type of disease, meaning it worsens over time.
A progressive disease.
These conditions must be ruled out because it can mimic Alzheimer’s symptoms but may be reversible with treatment.
Vitamin B12 deficiency, depression or thyroid disorders.
What is agnosia?
Inability to recognize familiar objects, people, tastes, sounds and other sensations.
Getting lost in a familiar place is a sign of difficulty with this ability.
Spatial awareness or orientation.
These abnormal protein clumps in the brain are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s.
Amyloid plaques.
This term describes a stage where cognitive decline is noticeable but not severe enough to interfere significantly with daily life, often preceding Alzheimer’s.
Mild Cognitive Impairment.
What is apraxia?
The misuse of objects or items because of the inability to properly identify them.