A growing body of research suggests that Alzheimer’s disease may be preceded by as many as ten different health conditions years before a diagnosis. A severe depressive disorder has been identified as the first condition linked to the disease, appearing as early as nine years before an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
According to The Mirror, other associated conditions include anxiety, constipation and unexplained weight loss. However, it remains unclear whether these associated conditions are symptoms, risk factors, causes, or early warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
Unknown Causes of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease, a brain disorder that leads to memory loss and declining cognitive abilities over time, is responsible for up to 70% of dementia cases. This connection highlights the importance of recognizing potential early indicators of cognitive decline.
Researchers involved in the study classified Alzheimer’s disease as one of the “most prominent health challenges of the 21st century.” While the cause of Alzheimer’s is unknown and there is currently no cure, the UK’s National Health Service has identified several factors believed to increase the risk of developing the disease. These factors include increasing age, family history, untreated depression, lifestyle factors, and conditions associated with heart disease. This research could pave the way for earlier or novel interventions for this devastating condition.
Conditions That May Signal Early Alzheimer’s Disease
The research team analyzed data from 20,214 patients in the United Kingdom over a 24-year period, and 19,458 individuals in France over 21 years. This study is the first of its kind to identify constipation as a potential risk factor appearing seven years before an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
According to the study, health conditions associated with a later Alzheimer’s diagnosis include:
–Severe depression
-Anxiety
-Constipation
-Unexplained weight loss
-Reaction to severe stress
-Sleep disturbances
–Hearing loss
-A type of arthritis known as cervical spondylosis
-Cataracts
-Fatigue
Thomas Nedelec, a researcher on the study, stated, “The links we have identified have allowed us to confirm known associations, such as hearing problems or depression, and other less well-known or early symptoms, such as cervical spondylosis or constipation.”
He added, “However, we are only reporting statistical associations, and further studies will be needed to understand the underlying mechanisms. The question remains as to whether the health problems observed are risk factors, symptoms, or warning signs of the disease.”
