Dementia is a progressive brain disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by a decline in cognitive abilities such as memory, thinking, and reasoning. As the disease progresses, it can have a significant impact on a person’s daily life, making it difficult for them to carry out even simple tasks.
As with any illness, early detection and treatment are important for managing dementia and improving the quality of life for those affected. However, there are certain signs of dementia that doctors may miss, leading to a delayed diagnosis and treatment. In this article, we will discuss some of these signs that your doctor might miss and what you can do about it.
1. Changes in behavior and mood
One of the earliest signs of dementia is changes in behavior and mood. People with dementia may become more irritable, agitated, or withdrawn. They may also experience sudden mood swings, becoming sad or angry without any apparent reason. These changes can be subtle and easily attributed to stress or other external factors, leading doctors to overlook them as signs of dementia.
2. Difficulty with daily tasks
Dementia affects a person’s ability to carry out everyday tasks such as cooking, cleaning, or managing finances. This can manifest as forgetfulness, confusion, or difficulty following instructions. For instance, a person with dementia may forget how to operate a household appliance they have used for years or struggle to keep track of their bills. These changes may not be immediately evident during a routine doctor’s visit, leading to a missed diagnosis.
3. Poor judgment and decision-making
Another sign of dementia that is often overlooked is changes in judgment and decision-making. People with dementia may make impulsive or risky decisions, such as giving away large sums of money or falling for scams. They may also have difficulty planning and organizing tasks or have trouble understanding cause-and-effect relationships. These changes may not be noticeable during a short doctor’s appointment but can be significant in a person’s daily life.
4. Social withdrawal
Dementia can also cause people to withdraw from social activities and relationships. They may become disinterested in hobbies or activities they used to enjoy or avoid social interactions altogether. This can be mistaken for depression or anxiety, leading to a delay in diagnosis and treatment.
5. Changes in speech and language
As dementia progresses, a person’s ability to communicate may be affected. They may have trouble finding the right words or following a conversation. They may also repeat themselves or struggle to express their thoughts. These changes can be subtle and may not be immediately evident during a doctor’s visit.
6. Difficulty with spatial awareness
People with dementia may also experience changes in their spatial awareness and navigation skills. They may get lost in familiar places or have trouble judging distances and depth. This can make it challenging for them to drive, increasing the risk of accidents. These changes may not be noticed during a routine check-up, leading to a missed diagnosis.
7. Changes in sleep patterns
Sleep disturbances are common among people with dementia, but they are often overlooked as a sign of the disease. They may have trouble falling or staying asleep, leading to daytime fatigue and irritability. Changes in sleep patterns can also worsen other symptoms of dementia, such as memory loss and confusion.
What you can do
If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these signs, it is essential to bring them up to your doctor. Keep a record of any changes you notice, including the frequency and severity of symptoms. This will help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
It is also important to mention any family history of dementia to your doctor. While age is the biggest risk factor for dementia, genetics can play a role in some cases. Additionally, if you have been diagnosed with a medical condition that increases your risk of dementia, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, inform your doctor.
In conclusion, dementia is a progressive disease that can significantly impact a person’s life. While there is no cure for dementia, early detection and treatment can help slow down its progression and improve the quality of life for those affected. By being aware of the signs of dementia that doctors might miss and being proactive in discussing them with your healthcare provider, you can ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
