Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects the elderly, causing memory loss, mood issues, and personality changes. However, recent evidence suggests that the disease can have early symptoms decades before diagnosis. Dr. Daniel Gibbs, who diagnosed himself with Alzheimer’s at 72, shared his warning signs and lifestyle changes that reduced the impact of the disease by 20%.
Dr. Gibbs started experiencing loss of smell at age 55, which he believes was an early warning sign. He introduced exercise, dietary changes, Tai Chi, and other lifestyle modifications to slow down the disease’s progression. Notably, losing one’s sense of smell is not permanent, but repeated exposure can improve cognitive function.
Early detection can significantly delay Alzheimer’s progression and improve quality of life. Key signs include:
– Memory loss
– Difficulty solving complex problems
– Mood changes, anxiety, depression, and aggression
– Recognizing difficulty in recognizing friends and family
– Inability to communicate
While there is no cure, treatment focuses on symptom management. Maintaining a healthy diet, regular physical exercise, managing cardiovascular health, and being socially active can reduce the risk of dementia.
Prevention strategies include:
* Healthy diet
* Regular exercise
* Managing stress and sleep
* Social activity
* Limiting alcohol consumption
Treatment options include:
* Medications like cholinesterase inhibitors, immunotherapy drugs, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anti-anxiety medications to manage symptoms.
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/doctor-who-diagnosed-his-own-alzheimers-advises-to-never-ignore-these-warning-signs/articleshow/116260867.cms