Introduction
Dementia is a serious condition that affects millions of people around the world. It can be difficult to diagnose, as the symptoms can be subtle and vary from person to person. However, a recent study has identified some major signs that may indicate that someone is suffering from dementia. In this article, we will discuss these signs and provide some tips on how to eat healthy to reduce the risk of developing dementia. We will also provide some information on how to get help if you or someone you know is showing signs of dementia.
Major Signs You May Have Dementia, Says Study
Dementia is a serious condition that affects millions of people around the world. A recent study has identified some major signs that may indicate you may have dementia. If you experience any of these signs, it is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible.
1. Memory Loss
One of the most common signs of dementia is memory loss. This can include forgetting recent events, conversations, or even forgetting the names of people you know. If you find yourself having difficulty remembering things, it is important to speak to your doctor.
2. Difficulty Concentrating
Another sign of dementia is difficulty concentrating. This can include difficulty focusing on tasks, difficulty following conversations, or difficulty understanding instructions. If you find yourself having difficulty concentrating, it is important to speak to your doctor.
3. Changes in Mood or Personality
Changes in mood or personality can also be a sign of dementia. This can include sudden outbursts of anger, depression, or confusion. If you find yourself experiencing any of these changes, it is important to speak to your doctor.
4. Difficulty with Everyday Tasks
Difficulty with everyday tasks can also be a sign of dementia. This can include difficulty with cooking, cleaning, or managing finances. If you find yourself having difficulty with everyday tasks, it is important to speak to your doctor.
Eat This Not That
If you think you may have dementia, it is important to make sure you are eating a healthy diet. Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to reduce the risk of developing dementia. It is also important to limit your intake of processed foods, sugar, and saturated fats.
Dementia is a progressive disease, and it’s important to treat it as early as possible so its progression can be slowed. That’s challenging, because many early symptoms of dementia are vague—and some may seem unrelated to the condition. A new study suggests there’s a major sign that you may develop dementia that may be overlooked. Read on to find out more—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You May Have Already Had COVID.
Dementia is an umbrella term for several disorders of the brain that involve changes to memory, thinking, personality, and judgment. Ultimately, these changes interfere with a person’s ability to function and live an independent life.
Most cases of dementia are diagnosed in people older than 65, and the biggest risk factor for dementia is simply getting older. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting about 6.2 million Americans.
A study published last month in the journal Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medication looked at the connection between chronic pain—specifically, widespread pain—and dementia.
Researchers analyzed data from the Framingham Heart Study, a community-based study that has tracked the health of thousands of people over decades. The participants—who were dementia-free when they joined the study—were asked about their pain status once between 1990 and 1994.
They were divided into three groups: Widespread pain—defined as pain above and below the waist, on both sides of the body, the skull, backbone and ribs; other pain—in one or more joints only; or no pain. Researchers then followed up with each participant a median of 10 years later.
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The scientists found that widespread pain was associated with a 43% greater risk of developing any type of dementia and a 47% greater risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, widespread pain correlated to a 29% higher chance of stroke.
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“These findings provide convincing evidence that [widespread pain] may be a risk factor for all-cause dementia, [Alzheimer’s disease], and stroke. This increased risk is independent of age, sex, multiple sociodemographic factors, and health status and behaviors,” the researchers wrote.
They theorized that either widespread pain might affect cognitive function to the point that it causes dementia, or widespread pain might be a very early sign of dementia.
But, the researchers cautioned, the correlations don’t prove any causes, and any relationship between widespread pain and dementia is likely to be affected by several factors. They called for more studies to be done.
Well-established common signs of dementia include:
- Forgetting recently learned information or important events
- Challenges in planning or solving problems
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion about time or place
- New problems with words in speaking or writing
- Problems with balance or coordination
- Changes in mood or personality
And to get through this pandemic at your healthiest, don’t miss these 35 Places You’re Most Likely to Catch COVID.