Cognitive decline is often associated with well-known symptoms like memory loss or confusion.
However, some less obvious signs may also indicate changes in brain health, but they often go unnoticed.
Understanding these rare symptoms can help identify cognitive decline early, allowing for better management and care.
One surprising symptom is a change in sense of smell. Research has shown that the loss or distortion of the ability to smell can be an early indicator of conditions like Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease.
The olfactory system, which helps us detect smells, is closely connected to brain regions involved in memory and emotions. Studies have found that people with mild cognitive decline often struggle with identifying common scents like coffee or citrus, even before other symptoms appear.
Another uncommon sign is difficulty navigating familiar places. This isn’t just about getting lost in new environments—it can happen in well-known locations, like a grocery store or even your own neighborhood.
This condition, known as topographical disorientation, occurs because the brain areas responsible for spatial awareness and memory start to weaken. Research suggests that such disorientation may occur years before more noticeable cognitive issues arise.
Changes in personality or social behavior can also be early signs of cognitive decline. For instance, someone who was once outgoing may become withdrawn, or a typically reserved person might start acting impulsively.
These changes often result from disruptions in the brain’s frontal lobes, which regulate decision-making, self-control, and social interactions.
A study published in the journal Neurology found that subtle behavioral changes, such as increased apathy or inappropriate social behavior, could precede more obvious cognitive symptoms in certain types of dementia.
Language difficulties are another rare but important sign. While forgetting words occasionally is normal, consistently misusing or substituting words in conversation may signal cognitive decline.
For example, someone might refer to a “clock” as a “time device” or have trouble following a conversation. This is called language impairment, and it can occur in early stages of cognitive diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Unusual physical symptoms can also provide clues. For example, frequent unexplained falls or changes in walking patterns may reflect underlying brain changes.
A study in The Lancet Neurology found that gait abnormalities, such as shuffling or slowed walking, are linked to cognitive decline, particularly in conditions like vascular dementia.
Finally, sleep disturbances can be a hidden sign. This doesn’t just mean trouble falling asleep; it can include vivid dreams, acting out dreams, or extreme daytime sleepiness.
Disorders like REM sleep behavior disorder have been linked to neurodegenerative diseases, and these sleep changes can occur years before cognitive symptoms appear.
Recognizing these subtle symptoms can make a big difference. If you notice these changes in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to talk to a doctor.
Early cognitive decline doesn’t always lead to dementia, and identifying it early can open the door to treatments and lifestyle changes that may slow progression.
Here are some practical tips for staying alert to uncommon signs of cognitive decline. First, keep a journal of any unusual symptoms, such as changes in smell, walking patterns, or personality. This can help track patterns over time.
Stay engaged with activities that challenge your brain, like puzzles, reading, or learning a new skill. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising, eating nutritious food, and prioritizing sleep.
Lastly, regular check-ups with a doctor are crucial, especially if you notice any changes. Catching cognitive decline early allows for better planning and support, helping you or your loved ones maintain a good quality of life for as long as possible.
If you care about dementia, please read studies that eating apples and tea could keep dementia at bay, and Olive oil: a daily dose for better brain health.
For more health information, please see recent studies what you eat together may affect your dementia risk, and time-restricted eating: a simple way to fight aging and cancer.
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