Memory loss and confusion are commonly linked with Alzheimer’s disease, but a physician has highlighted additional signs that could be confused with stress or burnout.
Dr. Martin Thornton, the Chief Medical Officer at Bluecrest, advises vigilance for concerning symptoms to detect potential health issues early. Apart from confusion, these may include difficulty concentrating at work, struggling with word retrieval in conversations, and experiencing more frequent time lapses.
In an interview with the Mirror, Dr. Thornton emphasized the importance of monitoring persistent or worsening brain changes, even at a young age. He suggested keeping a record of troubling experiences and being cautious of intense stress, which can lead to inflammaging and raise the risk of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s.
Dr. Thornton’s insights coincide with data showing over 944,000 people living with dementia in the UK, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most prevalent form, constituting around 60 to 70% of cases, according to the World Health Organization.
While occasional difficulty concentrating or finding words is normal, symptoms indicating a more serious issue are those that interfere with daily tasks and important responsibilities. Unexplained increases in irritability and anxiety towards usual routines, as well as challenges in adapting to changes, should also be noted.
Furthermore, Dr. Thornton cautioned that errors of judgment affecting critical responsibilities, such as forgetting important tasks or making mistakes at work, could signify impaired reasoning, an early indicator of Alzheimer’s disease.
He also mentioned that difficulty processing new information, even small routine changes, may signal cognitive decline. Additionally, he stressed the significance of recognizing unusual physical symptoms like frequent loss of balance or stumbling, which could be early warnings.
Dr. Thornton advised consulting a GP if concerned about these symptoms and directed individuals to seek further information on typical Alzheimer’s symptoms on the NHS website.
Experiencing these symptoms doesn’t definitively mean one has Alzheimer’s disease, but they serve as crucial warning signs to be mindful of.