Do Alzheimer's Symptoms Typically Come & Go

Alzheimer's symptoms vary as the stages of the disease advance. Alzheimer's disease is the number one cause of the loss of intellectual and social function in patients. It causes loss of brain tissue, which results in a loss of memory and other abilities. The severity of the symptoms increases as time moves on, making them come and go. Understanding its nature can help people cope with this disease.

Alzheimer's and Its Progression

• The early stages of Alzheimer's are mostly defined by subtle memory loss. People in the early stages may repeat words or phrases over and over again; they also may forget appointments and specific dates. Patients may have difficult times finding the right words in conversations and may lose track of conversations in general. These symptoms are not always present. A patient may have a week of clarity followed by a week of escalating confusion; and afterward, symptoms may subside again. Symptoms alternating back and forth are indicative of the early stages of Alzheimer's and they will vary from person to person.

  During the progression of the disease, faculties will begin to disappear. Patients may experience disorientation. The sense of time, dates and surroundings might disappear and then return, only to disappear again. At this point in the disease, sufferers might experience mood swings, anxiety, aggressiveness and depression. These mood swings and personality changes are intermittent; however as the brain begins to deteriorate, memory loss, difficulty in performing everyday tasks and loss of judgment become increasingly permanent and serious.

  The final stages of Alzheimer's result in an inability to live without constant aid. Going to the bathroom becomes arduous and painstaking. Patients often forget family members, key events or relate them to times in their youth. The ability to speak is lost as more and more brain tissue is lost. These symptoms are permanent.

  About 4.5 million people suffer from Alzheimer's disease, according to WebMD, and though it is not considered a part of normal aging, Alzheimer's affects mostly people over the age of 60. Chances of developing Alzheimer's nearly doubles after the age of 65, making it important to be aware of your own or loved one's behavior during this age. Early detection of Alzheimer's disease can slow its progression. If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms, even if they come and go, contact your doctor immediately. Hesitation could mean losing more skills and a worsening condition.