Four early signs of dementia that may appear before memory loss, according to GP

A GP has warned that there are some early signs of dementia that may be noticeable even before memory loss. Dementia is a progressive condition that affects brain function, leading to a decline in cognitive skills such as memory and reasoning, as well as speech and emotions over time.

It's estimated that more than 944,000 people in the UK have dementia, with 1 in 11 people over the age of 65 affected. The number of people with dementia is increasing because people are living longer.

While there is no cure, early diagnosis is crucial so that a treatment plan and medications can be put in place to manage symptoms effectively. Dr Johannes Uys, from Broadgate General Practice, has highlighted several early warning signs that could indicate the onset of dementia, reports Surrey Live.

While many associate memory problems with dementia, Dr Uys suggests that physical symptoms can also appear before memory loss in some cases. He shared four early signs to look out for, which are more commonly linked to certain types of dementia, such as Parkinson's disease dementia.

The expert also emphasised that symptoms vary from person to person, with each individual experiencing dementia differently. "However, if you notice any of these early signs in yourself or a loved one, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Early detection and intervention can help manage symptoms and provide the necessary support", he added.

Dementia risk factors are a mixed bag, with some being unavoidable like age, while others can be managed through lifestyle modifications in our younger years. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are known to lower the risk.

Other beneficial changes include maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption and cholesterol levels. The NHS suggests that cutting down on saturated fats, salt, and sugar, and increasing fibre intake could also help.

The GP went on to share these four early signs to look out for:

• an unsteady gait
• clumsiness
• difficulty with coordination
• tremors or stiffness in the limbs

Early diagnosis of dementia allows for prompt support to patients. However, a recent Alzheimer's Society survey reveals that only one in three people consult a doctor within the first month of noticing dementia symptoms in themselves or a loved one.

A poll involving 1,100 individuals showed that most people hesitate to seek help due to uncertainty about whether the symptoms are related to the condition or just signs of ageing. It's crucial to remember that dementia is not a natural part of ageing, and if you're becoming increasingly forgetful, especially if you're over 65, it's advisable to consult your GP.

Experts predict that by 2050, a staggering 150 million people worldwide will be affected by the condition, according to research published in the Lancet Public Health. Currently, around 900,000 people in the UK are living with it.