Alzheimer’s Disease Symptoms – When to Seek Help

At Internists of North Dallas, we understand the profound challenges that come with caring for a loved one in the advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease. As the condition progresses, individuals experience significant memory loss, often losing the ability to recognize family members or communicate verbally. Routine activities—such as eating, bathing, and dressing—may become impossible without assistance.

Our experienced team of internal medicine physicians is dedicated to helping families navigate these difficult times. We provide comprehensive care and coordination tailored to each patient’s unique needs, including:

• Managing Complex Medical Needs: Advanced Alzheimer’s often leads to complications like difficulty swallowing, incontinence, immobility, and a higher risk of infections. Our physicians closely monitor and manage these conditions to ensure the highest possible quality of life.

• Behavioral and Psychological Support: Our team is experienced in addressing behavioral changes such as agitation, anxiety, and aggression, working with families to develop strategies and, when appropriate, recommend medication or therapies.

• Caregiver Guidance and Education: Caring for someone with advanced Alzheimer’s is demanding. We offer resources, education, and support to help caregivers understand what to expect and how to provide safe, compassionate care at home or in a facility.

At Internists of North Dallas, our mission is to support both patients and their families with expert medical care and compassionate guidance through every stage of Alzheimer’s disease.

The root cause of Alzheimer’s disease is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that contribute to the development of the condition. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is characterized by the buildup of abnormal protein deposits in the brain, which are believed to disrupt communication between brain cells and trigger inflammation, leading to brain cell death.

One of the main theories surrounding Alzheimer’s is the amyloid hypothesis, which suggests that an accumulation of amyloid-beta protein in the brain forms plaques that disrupt normal brain function. These plaques are toxic to neurons and impair synaptic communication, leading to cognitive decline. Another key feature of Alzheimer’s is the formation of neurofibrillary tangles, which consist of twisted tau proteins. These tangles accumulate inside brain cells, further interfering with cell function and contributing to the breakdown of brain tissue.

Genetics also plays a significant role in Alzheimer’s disease. The most well-known genetic risk factor is the Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene, particularly the APOE ε4 allele, which increases the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. However, having this gene does not guarantee someone will develop the disease, indicating that other factors are at play. Some rare forms of Alzheimer’s are caused by mutations in specific genes, including the APP, PSEN1, and PSEN2 genes, which are linked to early-onset Alzheimer’s.

Environmental and lifestyle factors, such as age, cardiovascular health, diet, physical activity, and mental stimulation, can influence the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s. Chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, as can a lack of social engagement or cognitive activity. As research continues, it is clear that Alzheimer’s is a multifactorial disease, with both genetic predispositions and environmental factors contributing to its development.

Alzheimer’s disease progresses in stages, with symptoms becoming more severe over time. The progression varies for each individual, but it is generally divided into three main stages: mild (early), moderate (middle), and severe (late).

1. Mild (Early) Stage: In the early stage, individuals may experience subtle memory loss and confusion. They may have difficulty recalling recent events, names, or appointments, but they can often manage daily tasks with minimal assistance. Symptoms may include trouble finding the right words, forgetting important dates, and misplacing items. While these symptoms may be noticeable to family members, the individual is still generally independent and able to live at home.

2. Moderate (Middle) Stage: As Alzheimer’s progresses to the moderate stage, memory loss becomes more pronounced. Individuals may struggle with confusion about time, place, and identity. They may have difficulty recognizing family members and friends, experience mood swings, and become easily frustrated or anxious. At this stage, individuals often need help with daily activities, such as dressing, cooking, and personal hygiene. Behavioral changes, including aggression, paranoia, and sleep disturbances, may also occur.

3. Severe (Late) Stage: In the severe stage, individuals lose the ability to communicate effectively and require round-the-clock care. They may lose the ability to recognize loved ones and need assistance with all basic activities, including eating, bathing, and using the restroom. Memory loss is profound, and individuals may become bedridden and unable to move or speak. Physical symptoms, such as difficulty swallowing and walking, become more pronounced, and complications from these symptoms can lead to serious health issues like infections, which are often the cause of death.

Throughout all stages, Alzheimer’s disease impacts cognitive and physical function, progressively diminishing independence and quality of life.

If you or a loved one is experiencing memory loss, confusion, difficulty completing familiar tasks, trouble with language, changes in mood or personality, or challenges in making decisions, the team at Internists of North Dallas is here for you. While occasional forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging, persistent or worsening symptoms that interfere with daily life should not be ignored.

At Internists of North Dallas, our experienced physicians understand how memory and cognitive changes can impact work, relationships, social activities, and personal safety. If you notice these symptoms in yourself or someone you care about, scheduling a timely evaluation is important. Our compassionate healthcare professionals can help determine whether these changes are related to Alzheimer’s disease, another form of dementia, or a different medical condition.

Early diagnosis allows for the most effective treatment, support, and future planning. Don’t wait—contact Internists of North Dallas today to schedule an appointment if you have concerns about memory loss or changes in thinking abilities. Your health and peace of mind are our priority.

Dr. Nabila Aslam, MD, is a trusted physician in Irving, TX, for Alzheimer’s disease care due to her extensive experience and compassionate approach to patient care. As a board-certified internal medicine physician, Dr. Aslam takes the time to thoroughly evaluate each patient’s condition, considering their medical history, symptoms, and overall health. Her personalized treatment plans focus on improving the quality of life for patients and offering family support throughout the disease’s progression. Dr. Nabila Aslam’s commitment to staying updated on the latest research and treatments for Alzheimer’s ensures that her patients receive the most effective care available.

Patients trust Dr. Nabila Aslam for her comprehensive and empathetic approach to Alzheimer’s disease management. She understands the emotional and physical challenges faced by both patients and their families and provides a supportive environment where they feel heard and understood. By offering guidance on medication, lifestyle changes, and long-term care strategies, Dr. Aslam empowers families to make informed decisions while managing the complexities of Alzheimer’s disease. Her dedication to improving the lives of her patients and providing ongoing support makes her a trusted choice for Alzheimer’s care in Irving, TX. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 4500 N MacArthur Blvd #130, Irving, TX 75038. We serve patients from Irving TX, Coppell TX, Euless TX, Las Colinas TX, Farmers Branch TX, Valley Ranch TX, and surrounding areas.