Experts warn that Alzheimer’s disease can begin developing decades before symptoms become obvious — meaning early recognition is key to protecting your brain health. Understanding the subtle warning signs could make all the difference in preventing or delaying serious decline.
Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects those over 65, but early changes in the brain can start much sooner. Over time, it damages memory, reasoning, and the ability to perform everyday tasks. That’s why specialists are urging everyone to pay attention to the early red flags.
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Renowned psychiatrist and brain-imaging expert Dr. Daniel Amen has identified four key warning signs that your brain might be in trouble — and stresses that early action can help lower long-term risks.
1. Worsening Memory
Ask yourself if your memory has noticeably declined over the past decade. While forgetting a name or appointment occasionally is normal, frequently losing track of words, places, or familiar faces may point to deeper issues.
The hippocampus, the brain’s memory center, is often among the first regions affected in Alzheimer’s disease.
2. Poor Judgment and Impulsivity
When the brain begins to struggle, everyday decision-making can suffer. According to Dr. Amen, Alzheimer’s can cause parts of the brain to go “offline,” particularly the frontal lobe, which handles problem-solving and risk assessment. You might notice trouble managing money, making logical choices, or resisting impulses.
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3. Shortened Attention Span
Difficulty concentrating or staying focused may also signal early cognitive changes. Unlike lifelong issues such as ADHD, new or worsening distractibility could reflect early damage in the brain’s attention networks.
4. Low Mood or Emotional Shifts
Emotional changes are another early sign. Up to half of Alzheimer’s patients experience depression, and mood swings, irritability, and apathy can all appear as the brain regions controlling emotion begin to weaken. Persistent low energy or loss of motivation should not be ignored.
Recognizing Risk Factors
Dr. Amen emphasizes that addressing risk factors early is essential for brain protection. Some of the key contributors include:
- Obesity
- Low energy levels
- Erectile dysfunction
- Insomnia or sleep apnea
“If you recognize any of these warning signs or risk factors, now is the time to take your brain health seriously,” advises Dr. Amen.
@docamen Warning signs your brain health might not be in the best standing..
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When to Seek Help
If you’re concerned about these potential red flags, talk to your GP or a qualified healthcare professional. Early detection not only helps manage symptoms but can also significantly improve quality of life.
For guidance and support, contact the Alzheimer’s Society at 0333 150 3456 or visit their official website.
👉 Share this article with your friends and family — raising awareness today could help someone protect their brain for the future.
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