A quick three -minute brain wave test could help detect early memory problems related to Alzheimer's disease long before a clinical diagnosis is possible, according to a new study.
Developed at the University of Bath, the test, called Fastball, uses EEG technology to monitor brain activity through sensors placed on the scalp.
The study, published in Brain Communications and led by researchers from Bath and Bristol universities, involved 106 participants: 52 with mild cognitive deterioration (DCL), a decrease in memory or thought skills, and 54 healthy older adults. MCI can be an early indicator of Alzheimer's, although not all cases progress to the disease.
The results showed that people with amnestés DCL, a form marked by a remarkable memory loss, had significantly weaker responses to the fast ball test compared to those with non -amnestés DCL or without cognitive problems.
As research in early detection continues to develop, we got in touch with Dementia UK and Alzheimer's Society experts that some of Alzheimer's first of Alzheimer's most common signs shared to take into account, and talked about the crucial impact that the early diagnosis can have.
What are some common early signs of Alzheimer's disease to take into account?
Although Alzheimer's experience is unique, here there are some common early signs of the disease that should not ignore …
1. Memory problems
“The first remarkable sign of Alzheimer's disease is often memory problems, such as difficulties to remember recent events and learn new information,” says Dr. Simon Wheeler, a senior knowledge officer of Alzheimer's society. “This happens because one of the first parts of the brain to be damaged by Alzheimer's is often the hippocampus, which has an important role in the formation of new memories.
“The person is much less able to remember things that have happened recently, but still can have excellent memories of events that happened a long time ago, at least during the early stages.”
2. Difficulties of thought and reasoning
“Alzheimer's disease also affects thought and reasoning skills. A person can also have difficulty concentrating or continuing a conversation,” says Wheeler.
The daily problems that used to be easy to think about being more challenging over time.
“The tasks that involve a series of steps, such as cooking a meal or making a hot drink, can be confused and made in the wrong order,” says Wheeler. “All this leads to confusion, frustration and a gradual loss of independence.”
3. Language problems
“An Alzheimer's aspect that most people don't know is how language affects,” Wheeler stands out. “The most commonly consists in fighting to find the right words.
“For example, a person can stop while trying to think about the word he wants to use. He can feel that the word is at the” tip of his language “, but then does not reach them. This can also happen with names of people or places.”
Although this is something that we all experience from time to time when we are tired or distracted, Wheeler says that it can become quite remarkable in people living with Alzheimer's.
“They can say 'things' or similar filling words, even when the word they are looking for is quite basic,” Wheeler adds.
4. Humor changes
“Many people with Alzheimer's disease become anxious, irritable, sad or scared,” says Wheeler. “They can lose interest in talking with others, or in the activities and hobbies they used to enjoy, which makes them retire more over time.
“It is often difficult to say whether these changes in mood are caused by the disease itself or the frustrations of fighting with everyday tasks due to their symptoms.”
5. Changes in how things are seen and listened to (perception)
“Some people with Alzheimer can also fight to judge distances and see the scheme of the objects. This can make the use of stairs or park a car is much more difficult, for example,” says Wheeler. “You can also find certain uncomfortable or annoying noises, such as full volume or many people in a room that speaks at the same time.”
When should the advice of a professional about these symptoms look for?
“If you are concerned about the symptoms of dementia, such as changes in your memory, communication, personality or behavior or you have concerns about these changes in someone close to you, it is important to consult a header as soon as possible,” says Kirsty Dallison-Perry, head of admiraral nursing consultants in Dementia UK.
“This means that other conditions can be ruled out with symptoms similar to dementia and, if necessary, more evaluations can be performed so that an accurate diagnosis can be made and the proper support instead.”
Why is an early diagnosis for Alzheimer's disease so important?
Finding a diagnosis of dementia can be terrifying or overwhelming, but here there are some reasons why it is important to obtain a diagnosis as soon as possible …
It can help handle and treat symptoms more effectively
“Although there is no cure for dementia today, medication and other interventions can be used to help handle and reduce symptoms in some types of dementia, such as Alzheimer's disease,” says Dallison-Perry. “These are more effective if they start as soon as possible.”
Causes an action plan
“A diagnosis can help the person with dementia and his family to obtain the best support and establish future plans,” says Dallison-Perry. “This includes observing finances, considering important legal problems and making decisions about the present and the future.”
Provides an explanation
“Some people find a relief to have an explanation of why their memory, behavior or emotions are changing,” says Dallison-Perry.
Help loved ones to understand
“A diagnosis can benefit the broadest family (including children) and friends, and allow them to understand what is happening and how they can help,” says Dallison-Perry.
Help improve the quality of life
“A timely diagnosis can help the person stay well for a longer time by increasing their awareness of the condition and how they and their family can make adjustments to improve their quality of life,” says Dallison-Perry.
