Alzheimer’s disease usually progresses gradually, lasting two to 20 years, with an average of seven years in the United States. Once symptoms do appear, they increase in severity as a person with Alzheimer’s moves from the earliest to the final stages of the disease.
Stages | Symptoms |
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Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) |
Individuals with MCI have memory problems but are able to perform routine activities.
MCI often leads to Alzheimer’s, but not all patients with MCI will develop Alzheimer’s.
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Mild (Stage 1) |
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Moderate (Stage 2) |
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Severe (Stage 3) |
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Here are some of the more common things that can cause memory loss:
Experts estimate a skilled physician can diagnose Alzheimer's disease with more than 90 percent accuracy. Your doctor may refer you to a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's and other dementias such as a: