Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

Dementia Timeline - The Average Time For Diagnosis After Symptoms Appear May Surprise You

<span><a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health/dementia">Dementia</a></span> is an umbrella term for cognitive degenerative conditions which affects millions of people. We have all seen articles and videos about early diagnosis and how important it is. However, getting it diagnosed as early as we hope is much more different in reality. 

A new report published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry highlights a concerning trend, it takes an average of three-and-a-half years for a person to be diagnosed with dementia after their first symptoms appear. The study, which looked at data from over 30,000 people, is the first major effort to measure this delay. 

Getting a timely diagnosis is extremely important. It gives people with dementia access to treatments and support earlier, which can potentially slow down the worsening of their symptoms. With new medications now available that can slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease in its early stages, an accurate and timely diagnosis is more crucial than ever. 

<h2>Does Diagnosis Varies Among Different Groups?</h2>

The study found that the time it takes to get a diagnosis is not the same for everyone. For people with early-onset dementia (which affects younger people), the delay is even longer, averaging just over four years. The research also linked a longer time to diagnosis to:

<ul><li>Being younger when symptoms first appear.</li><li>Having a specific type of dementia called frontotemporal dementia.</li><li>In one of the studies, Black patients were also found to wait longer for a diagnosis.</li></ul>

<h2>What Are The Reasons for Delay in Diagnosis?</h2>

Researchers have identified several key reasons why people wait so long to get a <span>dementia diagnosis</span>: 

<h4>Mistaking symptoms for normal aging </h4>

Early signs of dementia, like forgetfulness or confusion, are often dismissed as a natural part of growing older. This common misunderstanding prevents many people from seeking a medical evaluation, leading to significant delays in getting a proper diagnosis. 

The social stigma surrounding dementia causes many people to feel afraid or embarrassed. This fear can discourage individuals and their families from seeking help, leading them to avoid conversations with doctors and prolonging the time to diagnosis. 

<h4>Issues with the healthcare system </h4>

Problems within the healthcare system, such as inefficient doctor referral networks, language barriers, and a lack of staff at memory clinics, also contribute to diagnostic delays. These systemic challenges make it harder for patients to get the timely care they need. 

After the initial evaluation, doctors may use a variety of specialized tests to confirm a dementia diagnosis and identify its type. 

<h4>Cognitive and Neurological Tests </h4>

These are used to assess a person's thinking and physical abilities, including memory, problem-solving skills, and language. Imaging tests like CT, MRI, and PET scans are used to look for physical changes in the brain, such as tumors or strokes, and to observe brain activity. Psychiatric evaluation could also be done to 

Psychiatric evaluations could help doctors determine whether a different <span>mental health</span> condition is contributing to these symptoms. In rare cases doctors could also recommend genetic testing for family history. 

<h4>Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Tests and Blood Test </h4>

A spinal tap can be performed to collect CSF, which is then tested for specific proteins that may indicate Alzheimer's or other types of dementia. Although they are not standard tests yet, blood tests have been created to measure levels of beta-amyloid which are associated with Alzheimer’s. 

To address this challenge, the study’s authors suggest a plan of action on several fronts. First, they recommend launching public awareness campaigns to help people better understand the early signs of dementia and to reduce the stigma associated with the condition. This would hopefully encourage people to seek medical help sooner. 

Second, they emphasize the need for better training for doctors and other healthcare professionals so they can more easily recognize the symptoms of dementia and refer patients for specialized care more quickly. Finally, they stress the importance of providing better access to early intervention and support for people with dementia and their families, ensuring they get the help they need as soon as possible. 

Health Conditions A-Z

health

dementia

alzheimers

Dementia Diagnosis

Average Time For Dementia  Diagnosis

Reasons for the Delayed diagnosis

mental health

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Dementia is an umbrella term for cognitive degenerative conditions which affects millions of people. We have all seen articles and videos about early diagnosis and how important it is. However, getting it diagnosed as early as we hope is much more different in reality. A new report published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry highlights a concerning trend, it takes an average of three-and-a-half years for a person to be diagnosed with dementia after their first symptoms appear. The study, which looked at data from over 30,000 people, is the first major effort to measure this delay. Getting a timely diagnosis is extremely important. It gives people with dementia access to treatments and support earlier, which can potentially slow down the worsening of their symptoms. With new medications now available that can slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease in its early stages, an accurate and timely diagnosis is more crucial than ever. Does Diagnosis Varies Among Different Groups?The study found that the time it takes to get a diagnosis is not the same for everyone. For people with early-onset dementia (which affects younger people), the delay is even longer, averaging just over four years. The research also linked a longer time to diagnosis to:Being younger when symptoms first appear.Having a specific type of dementia called frontotemporal dementia.In one of the studies, Black patients were also found to wait longer for a diagnosis.What Are The Reasons for Delay in Diagnosis?Researchers have identified several key reasons why people wait so long to get a dementia diagnosis: Mistaking symptoms for normal aging Early signs of dementia, like forgetfulness or confusion, are often dismissed as a natural part of growing older. This common misunderstanding prevents many people from seeking a medical evaluation, leading to significant delays in getting a proper diagnosis. Fear and stigma The social stigma surrounding dementia causes many people to feel afraid or embarrassed. This fear can discourage individuals and their families from seeking help, leading them to avoid conversations with doctors and prolonging the time to diagnosis. Issues with the healthcare system Problems within the healthcare system, such as inefficient doctor referral networks, language barriers, and a lack of staff at memory clinics, also contribute to diagnostic delays. These systemic challenges make it harder for patients to get the timely care they need. How Is Dementia Diagnosed? After the initial evaluation, doctors may use a variety of specialized tests to confirm a dementia diagnosis and identify its type. Cognitive and Neurological Tests These are used to assess a person's thinking and physical abilities, including memory, problem-solving skills, and language. Imaging tests like CT, MRI, and PET scans are used to look for physical changes in the brain, such as tumors or strokes, and to observe brain activity. Psychiatric evaluation could also be done to Evaluations and Other Tests Psychiatric evaluations could help doctors determine whether a different mental health condition is contributing to these symptoms. In rare cases doctors could also recommend genetic testing for family history. Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Tests and Blood Test A spinal tap can be performed to collect CSF, which is then tested for specific proteins that may indicate Alzheimer's or other types of dementia. Although they are not standard tests yet, blood tests have been created to measure levels of beta-amyloid which are associated with Alzheimer’s. To address this challenge, the study’s authors suggest a plan of action on several fronts. First, they recommend launching public awareness campaigns to help people better understand the early signs of dementia and to reduce the stigma associated with the condition. This would hopefully encourage people to seek medical help sooner. Second, they emphasize the need for better training for doctors and other healthcare professionals so they can more easily recognize the symptoms of dementia and refer patients for specialized care more quickly. Finally, they stress the importance of providing better access to early intervention and support for people with dementia and their families, ensuring they get the help they need as soon as possible. 

Dementia Diagnosis: How Long Does It Take To Diagnose After Symptoms Appear?

dementia timeline - the average time for diagnosis after symptoms appear may surprise you

Supriya Ramesh

Ronald Acuña Jr. Sidelined with Achilles Tendon Tightness: What It Means and Why It Matters

Representational Image Credits: Canva

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Manhattan Shooter Cited CTE in Suicide Note: Here Is What the Condition Means

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It’s déjà vu <span>Braves</span> fans didn’t ask for. <span>Ronald</span> Acuña Jr., Atlanta’s powerhouse <span>baseball outfielder</span> and reigning National League MVP, has hit the injured list again, this time with <span>tightness</span> in his right <span>Achilles tendon</span>. Just months after returning from a torn ACL in his left knee, Acuña pulled up sore after sprinting the bases and later chasing a fly ball, exiting Tuesday’s game against the Royals mid-inning.

But what does Achilles tendon tightness actually mean, and why does it freak out athletes and sports doctors alike? 

The Achilles tendon, also known as the calcaneal tendon, is the thick band of tissue that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It is the biggest and strongest tendon in the human body. But it can bring even the fittest athletes to their knees.

It helps you run, jump, pivot and push off the ground, basically every move an outfielder like Acuña makes in a single play. When it is tight, inflamed or partially torn, that springy propulsion becomes painful and unstable. Cue the limping, grimacing and, in some cases, weeks on the injured list.

<h2>Why Achilles Pain Is a Red Flag</h2>Achilles tightness might sound like a minor complaint, but it is often the body’s early warning system. It could stem from overuse, fatigue, poor footwear, or biomechanical imbalances.

In Acuña’s case, the discomfort reportedly began the night before while sprinting around the bases and got worse chasing fly balls. That is a classic setup: high-intensity bursts, sudden stops, and quick direction changes, all high-risk moves for the Achilles.

If ignored, tightness can escalate to <span>tendonitis</span> (<span>inflammation</span>), partial tears, or the dreaded rupture, which is basically the tendon snapping in two. That is a season-ending <span>injury</span>, often requiring surgery and months of rehab.

<h2>When the Body Says No</h2>Beyond the physical pain, repeated injuries hit hard on the mental game. Acuña admitted he did not want to sit out, even though the pain intensified, because he has already missed too much time.

But ignoring Achilles issues can backfire in the worst way. What starts as tightness today could be crutches tomorrow. The tendon does not heal fast, and re-injury is a very real risk if <span>recovery</span> is rushed.

<h2>The Game Plan for Recovery</h2>For now, Acuña’s been placed on the 10-day injured list, but tendon issues do not always follow a schedule. He will likely undergo scans to rule out structural damage, followed by rest, anti-inflammatories, and physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the area.

Recovery is not just about waiting for the pain to stop; it is about rebuilding strength, restoring flexibility, and ensuring both legs are balanced and strong.

<h2>Why This Matters for Everyone Who Plays</h2>This is not just a pro-athlete problem. Achilles injuries are surprisingly common in runners, dancers, and gym-goers. If you feel stiffness in your heel or lower calf, especially first thing in the morning or during exercise, do not brush it off.

Stretch regularly, warm up before activity, avoid sudden ramp-ups in intensity, and listen to your body. And if the pain lingers or worsens, see a specialist. Ronald Acuña Jr.’s Achilles flare-up might just be tightness, but it is the kind of tightness that turns trainers serious and fans anxious. It’s also a timely reminder that this tendon is small but mighty, and when it acts up, rest is not optional. Whether you are chasing fly balls or your morning run goal, treat your heels with the caution they deserve.

achilles tendon

tightness

injury

inflammation

tendonitis

recovery

braves

sports injury

ronald

baseball outfielder

It’s déjà vu Braves fans didn’t ask for. Ronald Acuña Jr., Atlanta’s powerhouse baseball outfielder and reigning National League MVP, has hit the injured list again, this time with tightness in his right Achilles tendon. Just months after returning from a torn ACL in his left knee, Acuña pulled up sore after sprinting the bases and later chasing a fly ball, exiting Tuesday’s game against the Royals mid-inning.But what does Achilles tendon tightness actually mean, and why does it freak out athletes and sports doctors alike? The Achilles tendon, also known as the calcaneal tendon, is the thick band of tissue that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. It is the biggest and strongest tendon in the human body. But it can bring even the fittest athletes to their knees.It helps you run, jump, pivot and push off the ground, basically every move an outfielder like Acuña makes in a single play. When it is tight, inflamed or partially torn, that springy propulsion becomes painful and unstable. Cue the limping, grimacing and, in some cases, weeks on the injured list.Why Achilles Pain Is a Red FlagAchilles tightness might sound like a minor complaint, but it is often the body’s early warning system. It could stem from overuse, fatigue, poor footwear, or biomechanical imbalances.In Acuña’s case, the discomfort reportedly began the night before while sprinting around the bases and got worse chasing fly balls. That is a classic setup: high-intensity bursts, sudden stops, and quick direction changes, all high-risk moves for the Achilles.If ignored, tightness can escalate to tendonitis (inflammation), partial tears, or the dreaded rupture, which is basically the tendon snapping in two. That is a season-ending injury, often requiring surgery and months of rehab.When the Body Says NoBeyond the physical pain, repeated injuries hit hard on the mental game. Acuña admitted he did not want to sit out, even though the pain intensified, because he has already missed too much time.But ignoring Achilles issues can backfire in the worst way. What starts as tightness today could be crutches tomorrow. The tendon does not heal fast, and re-injury is a very real risk if recovery is rushed.The Game Plan for RecoveryFor now, Acuña’s been placed on the 10-day injured list, but tendon issues do not always follow a schedule. He will likely undergo scans to rule out structural damage, followed by rest, anti-inflammatories, and physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the area.Recovery is not just about waiting for the pain to stop; it is about rebuilding strength, restoring flexibility, and ensuring both legs are balanced and strong.Why This Matters for Everyone Who PlaysThis is not just a pro-athlete problem. Achilles injuries are surprisingly common in runners, dancers, and gym-goers. If you feel stiffness in your heel or lower calf, especially first thing in the morning or during exercise, do not brush it off.Stretch regularly, warm up before activity, avoid sudden ramp-ups in intensity, and listen to your body. And if the pain lingers or worsens, see a specialist. Ronald Acuña Jr.’s Achilles flare-up might just be tightness, but it is the kind of tightness that turns trainers serious and fans anxious. It’s also a timely reminder that this tendon is small but mighty, and when it acts up, rest is not optional. Whether you are chasing fly balls or your morning run goal, treat your heels with the caution they deserve.

ronald acuña jr. sidelined with achilles tendon tightness: what it means and why it matters

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A recent tragic shooting in Midtown Manhattan has pulled an obscure but alarming <span>brain disease</span> back into the headlines. The shooter reportedly left behind a <span>suicide</span> note claiming he suffered from <span>CTE</span>, short for <span>chronic traumatic encephalopathy</span>, a condition linked to repeated <span>head trauma</span>. As shocking as the incident was, it has opened up a floodgate of questions: What exactly is CTE? Can it really make someone act out violently? And how can we even know if someone had it?

<h2>What Exactly Is CTE?</h2>CTE is not your everyday concussion aftermath. It is a progressive, degenerative brain disease caused by repeated head injuries, the kind you get from rough contact sports, military service, or just too many unfortunate falls. Over time, these impacts seem to trigger the buildup of an abnormal protein in the brain called tau. This sticky substance does not just sit there quietly. It gradually spreads through the brain, messing with vital functions and causing serious, irreversible damage.

<h2>The Symptoms </h2>People with CTE do not wake up one morning knowing something is wrong. The symptoms can creep in slowly, subtle at first, then increasingly hard to ignore, leading to memory lapses, confusion, impulsive behaviour, unexplained aggression, mood swings, deepening depression and, in many tragic cases, suicidal thoughts.

It is the sort of change that can feel like a personality transplant. Loved ones often report seeing someone “become a different person” over time.

<h2>Not Just a Pro Athlete Problem</h2>For a long time, CTE seemed to be the unwanted souvenir of retired American football players. The sport's culture of full-body collisions made it the perfect storm for head trauma. But recent research is telling a more disturbing story. A 2023 study uncovered CTE in younger, amateur athletes, including teens as young as 17.

Back to the Manhattan case. While the shooter’s note mentioned CTE, we still do not know whether he actually had it, let alone whether it influenced his behaviour. This brings up messy territory: should possible brain disease be considered in criminal responsibility? Can CTE be a mitigating factor in violent crime?

It is a grey zone. And until we develop reliable tools to diagnose CTE in the living, we are mostly left guessing.

<h2>What Can We Do?</h2>CTE is a slow, silent thief, robbing people of their memory, emotions, and identity. And while scientists are racing to understand it better, prevention remains our best bet for now. That means:

<ul><li>Rethinking how we approach youth and professional sports</li><li>Reducing repeated head trauma wherever possible</li><li>Keeping an eye out for changes in behaviour following head injuries</li></ul>CTE is not some mysterious ailment that only haunts linebackers. It is a very real, very scary consequence of repeated trauma to the brain, and as we are learning, it can touch more lives than we ever thought. It is time we start treating our heads with the same care we give the rest of our bodies, maybe even more. 

chronic traumatic encephalopathy

brain disease

head trauma

suicide

tau protein

memory loss

football injuries

legal responsibility

Manhattan Shooter

A recent tragic shooting in Midtown Manhattan has pulled an obscure but alarming brain disease back into the headlines. The shooter reportedly left behind a suicide note claiming he suffered from CTE, short for chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a condition linked to repeated head trauma. As shocking as the incident was, it has opened up a floodgate of questions: What exactly is CTE? Can it really make someone act out violently? And how can we even know if someone had it?What Exactly Is CTE?CTE is not your everyday concussion aftermath. It is a progressive, degenerative brain disease caused by repeated head injuries, the kind you get from rough contact sports, military service, or just too many unfortunate falls. Over time, these impacts seem to trigger the buildup of an abnormal protein in the brain called tau. This sticky substance does not just sit there quietly. It gradually spreads through the brain, messing with vital functions and causing serious, irreversible damage.The Symptoms People with CTE do not wake up one morning knowing something is wrong. The symptoms can creep in slowly, subtle at first, then increasingly hard to ignore, leading to memory lapses, confusion, impulsive behaviour, unexplained aggression, mood swings, deepening depression and, in many tragic cases, suicidal thoughts.It is the sort of change that can feel like a personality transplant. Loved ones often report seeing someone “become a different person” over time.Not Just a Pro Athlete ProblemFor a long time, CTE seemed to be the unwanted souvenir of retired American football players. The sport's culture of full-body collisions made it the perfect storm for head trauma. But recent research is telling a more disturbing story. A 2023 study uncovered CTE in younger, amateur athletes, including teens as young as 17.Back to the Manhattan case. While the shooter’s note mentioned CTE, we still do not know whether he actually had it, let alone whether it influenced his behaviour. This brings up messy territory: should possible brain disease be considered in criminal responsibility? Can CTE be a mitigating factor in violent crime?It is a grey zone. And until we develop reliable tools to diagnose CTE in the living, we are mostly left guessing.What Can We Do?CTE is a slow, silent thief, robbing people of their memory, emotions, and identity. And while scientists are racing to understand it better, prevention remains our best bet for now. That means:Rethinking how we approach youth and professional sportsReducing repeated head trauma wherever possibleKeeping an eye out for changes in behaviour following head injuriesCTE is not some mysterious ailment that only haunts linebackers. It is a very real, very scary consequence of repeated trauma to the brain, and as we are learning, it can touch more lives than we ever thought. It is time we start treating our heads with the same care we give the rest of our bodies, maybe even more. 

What Is That One Thing That Makes Hepatitis So Dangerous?

Credits: Canva

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<span>Hepatitis</span> is not nicknamed the “silent killer” for nothing. What makes it so dangerous is how symptomless it often is for years. It can quietly chip away at your liver without so much as a warning sign. By the time symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, or abdominal pain appear, significant harm may already have occurred. This eerie silence allows hepatitis to go undetected until it has done some serious damage.

Just Because You Cannot Hear It Does Not Mean It Is Not There

Dr Vikram Vora says that hepatitis is a major global health threat, killing over a million people each year. What is even more tragic? These deaths are, in his words, “largely preventable”. The villains in this tale, <span>cirrhosis</span> and <span>liver cancer</span>, often stem from untreated or undiagnosed hepatitis infections.

“The cornerstone of hepatitis control is prevention,” Dr Vora says. And the good news is that you have got some powerful tools at your disposal. “Vaccination, especially against <span>Hepatitis B</span>, is one of the most effective tools available,” he says, adding that infants, healthcare workers, and at-risk adults should be prioritised. Other prevention measures include safe injection practices, steering clear of needle-sharing, and ensuring <span>blood transfusions</span> are properly screened.

But danger often hides in plain sight. Dr Vora warns that something as seemingly harmless as getting a tattoo or piercing can carry lifelong consequences if done in an unregulated facility. His advice? “Choosing safe, licensed establishments is non-negotiable.”

<h2>Why You Should Not Wait for Symptoms</h2>

If there is one thing hepatitis is good at, it is staying undetected. That is why Dr Vora champions regular screening, especially if you have had medical procedures, blood transfusions, or close contact with someone infected. “Early diagnosis is a game-changer,” he says. Caught in time, hepatitis can be treated effectively, helping patients avoid severe liver disease or even make a full recovery.

<h2>A Diagnosis Is Not a Death Sentence</h2>

Dr Vora offers hope to those living with hepatitis. “With proper medical care and lifestyle adjustments, a healthy life is achievable,” he insists. That means ditching alcohol, sticking to a <span>balanced diet</span>, maintaining a <span>healthy weight</span>, and closely following medical advice. He also points out the mental and emotional toll a diagnosis can take. “Support from family, community, and healthcare providers can make a significant difference in outcomes.”

<h2>The <span rel="noindex">Stigma</span> That Silences</h2>

Perhaps just as damaging as the virus itself is the social stigma surrounding it. Dr Vora identifies this as a major hurdle in tackling hepatitis. “Fear of social exclusion keeps many from seeking help,” he explains. And that delay can cost lives. According to him, building a culture of empathy and understanding is critical. He encourages public health campaigns, education, and open dialogue as essential tools to dismantle this stigma.

In Dr Vora’s words, “Hepatitis may be silent, but it is not invincible.” Every little step, whether it is getting vaccinated, getting screened, or just talking about it, can chip away at the power hepatitis holds. Silence has cost too many lives already. Awareness can save them.

hepatitis

liver damage

vaccination

stigma

cirrhosis

liver cancer

Hepatitis B

blood transfusions

healthy weight

balanced diet

Hepatitis is not nicknamed the “silent killer” for nothing. What makes it so dangerous is how symptomless it often is for years. It can quietly chip away at your liver without so much as a warning sign. By the time symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, or abdominal pain appear, significant harm may already have occurred. This eerie silence allows hepatitis to go undetected until it has done some serious damage.Just Because You Cannot Hear It Does Not Mean It Is Not ThereDr Vikram Vora says that hepatitis is a major global health threat, killing over a million people each year. What is even more tragic? These deaths are, in his words, “largely preventable”. The villains in this tale, cirrhosis and liver cancer, often stem from untreated or undiagnosed hepatitis infections.Prevention Helps “The cornerstone of hepatitis control is prevention,” Dr Vora says. And the good news is that you have got some powerful tools at your disposal. “Vaccination, especially against Hepatitis B, is one of the most effective tools available,” he says, adding that infants, healthcare workers, and at-risk adults should be prioritised. Other prevention measures include safe injection practices, steering clear of needle-sharing, and ensuring blood transfusions are properly screened.But danger often hides in plain sight. Dr Vora warns that something as seemingly harmless as getting a tattoo or piercing can carry lifelong consequences if done in an unregulated facility. His advice? “Choosing safe, licensed establishments is non-negotiable.”Why You Should Not Wait for SymptomsIf there is one thing hepatitis is good at, it is staying undetected. That is why Dr Vora champions regular screening, especially if you have had medical procedures, blood transfusions, or close contact with someone infected. “Early diagnosis is a game-changer,” he says. Caught in time, hepatitis can be treated effectively, helping patients avoid severe liver disease or even make a full recovery.A Diagnosis Is Not a Death SentenceDr Vora offers hope to those living with hepatitis. “With proper medical care and lifestyle adjustments, a healthy life is achievable,” he insists. That means ditching alcohol, sticking to a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and closely following medical advice. He also points out the mental and emotional toll a diagnosis can take. “Support from family, community, and healthcare providers can make a significant difference in outcomes.”The Stigma That SilencesPerhaps just as damaging as the virus itself is the social stigma surrounding it. Dr Vora identifies this as a major hurdle in tackling hepatitis. “Fear of social exclusion keeps many from seeking help,” he explains. And that delay can cost lives. According to him, building a culture of empathy and understanding is critical. He encourages public health campaigns, education, and open dialogue as essential tools to dismantle this stigma.Make Noise Against the SilenceIn Dr Vora’s words, “Hepatitis may be silent, but it is not invincible.” Every little step, whether it is getting vaccinated, getting screened, or just talking about it, can chip away at the power hepatitis holds. Silence has cost too many lives already. Awareness can save them.

what is that one thing that makes hepatitis so dangerous?

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