Identifying early indicators of dementia in women: a brief overview

Recognizing the initial symptoms of dementia in females

Dementia, a collective term for various symptoms of cognitive decline, is a growing concern worldwide. This condition, which affects memory, thinking, and social abilities, is not a specific disease but a group of conditions characterized by impairment of at least two brain functions.

Dementia arises from damage to brain cells, disrupting their communication abilities. One of the most common causes of dementia is Alzheimer's disease, which involves high levels of certain proteins inside and outside brain cells, making it difficult for these cells to remain healthy and communicate.

While there is no cure for dementia, medications such as cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine can help manage symptoms. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, mental stimulation, and maintaining good general health are lifestyle choices that may help reduce the risk of dementia.

The higher frequency of dementia in women is attributed to a combination of longevity, hormonal changes (especially during menopause), and genetic factors such as the stronger effect of the APOE4 risk gene in women. Cardiovascular health also plays a significant role in their risk, especially after menopause.

Symptoms of dementia progress over time, becoming more pronounced and impacting various aspects of an individual's life. Common early signs include memory lapses, difficulty with names, task performance issues, forgetting recent information, misplacing valuables, and trouble planning or organizing. In women, early signs may also include memory loss, difficulty with problem-solving, and changes in behavior and personality.

If someone has problems remembering recent events or feels confused, they should talk with a health professional. Diagnosing dementia involves a medical history review, physical examination, cognitive and neuropsychological tests, imaging tests (MRI or CT scans), and laboratory tests.

Each brain region handles specific functions such as memory, judgment, and movement. The hippocampus, responsible for learning and memory, is one of the first areas affected in dementia, leading to early memory loss.

People with dementia can live for many years after diagnosis, with treatments and lifestyle changes helping manage symptoms and maintain daily functioning. Cognitive stimulation and occupational therapy can improve function for individuals with dementia.

In the final stage of dementia, individuals require extensive care and may have a loss of awareness of recent experiences and surroundings, physical decline, communication difficulties, and an increased susceptibility to infections.

It's important to note that while dementia is more common in females than males, anyone can be affected. Early detection and management can significantly improve the quality of life for those affected by this condition.