Cognitive disorders or cognitive problems begin very subtly, there are no apparent signs or symptoms and in most of the cases, it is too late before they are diagnosed and the problem has already progressed to a higher level. These cognitive disorders not only affect the quality of the patient’s life but also affect the family members and loved ones one way or another. It is important for family members to keep a close eye on their loved one, especially as they age to see how well they are doing and if their brain functions are showing any signs of abnormality.
With early diagnosis and proper care, it is possible to slow down the process of brain degeneration that is the main cause of cognitive decline and disorder. There are a number of factors that lead to cognitive disorders. Hormonal imbalances in the womb, genetic predisposition and environmental factors are a few. Lack of proper nutrition and interaction during vulnerable stages of cognitive development especially the growing up years are said to be the main causes of cognitive disorders. Sometimes, substance abuse and physical injury can also lead to cognitive disorders in case the part of the brain that determines cognitive functioning is damaged either due to excessive use of drugs or trauma.
Types of cognitive disorder
Cognitive disorders are a part of the neurocognitive disorders that are defined as any disorder that significantly impairs the cognitive function of an individual to a point where normal functioning in a society becomes impossible with proper treatment.
Some of the most commonly known cognitive disorders are:
- Dementia
- Developmental disorders
- Motor skills disorders
- Amnesia
- Cognitive impairment
Research shows that Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common cognitive disorders that affect more than 5.1 million American every year.
How to detect cognitive disorder
The signs and symptoms of cognitive disorders vary but the most common ones are easy to detect. They include:
- Confusion
- Poor motor coordination
- Loss of long and short term memory
- Identity confusion
- Impaired judgement
- Cognitive decline with passage of time
With the passage of time, the severity of cognitive disorders progresses which often make it difficult for patients and the caregivers to cope with things. Cognitive disorder begins with the patient showing very minor signs of forgetfulness; the patient will forget the names of people they knew well or forget what they did recently. In the beginning, it would seem like routine incidents of forgetfulness but as the disease progresses, the patient’s memory becomes persistently impaired and they live in a state of confusion.
It becomes necessary for the caregiver to understand what the patient is going through and provide them love and care that they need at this time. Having the right information regarding cognitive decline, cognitive impairment and dementia can help immensely in dealing with these conditions as the patients often become emotional, stressed and confused which makes it tough for others to help them. However, there have also been cases where the patient withdrew into themselves and did not show any emotions or feelings at all. It is up to the caregiver to see what the patient is going through and deal with them in the most capable manner, offering them all the support and love they need at this time.
Treatment for cognitive disorders
Doctors mostly prescribe antidepressants and medicines that prevent further decline in the condition as there is no drug to treat cognitive disorders. There are supplements and therapies that help to reduce memory loss and improve cognitive function to deal with depression and anxiety. These medicines help to extend the awareness of the patient, slow down the degenerative process and improve the quality of life.
It is important to consult a doctor or a specialist and get the best medical care as soon as the patient shows signs of cognitive decline Philadelphia as this is the only way to prevent the severity of problem. After assessing the initial signs of dementia Yardley, the doctor can prescribe the right medication and therapy that will make it easy for the patient and the caregiver to adjust with the situation and live a better quality life.
Primary Care Physician Bucks County, PA 