Huh! What did I just say? Huh! What was I about to pick up? It is believed that everyone, regardless of age, has experienced these symptoms. But if you are over 50 years old and start experiencing these “huh!” moments frequently in daily life, these symptoms may be warning signs indicating Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).
What is Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)?
MCI is a condition of mild cognitive impairment, which lies between normal memory function and the early stages of dementia. Most cases of MCI show symptoms of memory problems but individuals can still live normally, continue working, and take care of themselves well.
Check if your symptoms fall under MCI?
MCI can present with various symptoms, including
- Frequent forgetting, easily forgetting, forgetting details of recent events but able to recall them after some time, unlike Alzheimer’s patients who tend to forget for a long time and mostly cannot recall what was forgotten.
- Slower planning and decision-making: still able to plan things but may take more time to think and have less ability to solve immediate problems as before.
- Difficulty finding words, such as slight speech or explanation difficulties, not as fluent as before but still able to communicate.
- Reduced concentration and attention to things, possibly becoming easily bored with routine activities.
- Some may start to feel less understanding or empathy towards others and may exhibit some inappropriate behaviors different from their usual behavior.
What causes MCI?
The causes of MCI can be divided as follows:
- Genetics: If there is a family history of dementia, the risk of MCI increases.
- Chronic diseases: such as hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, especially if these conditions are not well controlled.
- Insufficient rest
This means that regular sleep deprivation increases the risk of MCI. Research has found that insufficient rest and prolonged insomnia contribute to a higher risk of MCI and also increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. If you need to work in shifts, try to rest as much as possible and regularly monitor yourself because insufficient rest not only increases the risk of MCI but may also lead to other diseases.
How many methods are there to diagnose MCI?
The assessment for MCI is similar to dementia screening, involving an initial evaluation by a neurologist. Blood tests may be done to check kidney, liver, thyroid hormone functions, and levels of certain vitamins such as vitamin B12. In some cases, the doctor may consider MRI or CT scans for more detailed diagnosis.
Then, memory tests are conducted by specialists, which include
- TMSE (Thai Mental State Examination) is a basic test, and most people with MCI do not show abnormalities in this test.
- MoCA (Montreal Cognitive Assessment) is a more complex test, and most people with MCI show abnormalities in this test.
Can MCI be completely cured?
First, it is important to understand that MCI is divided into three main groups:
- One-third of people with MCI may progress to dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
- One-third may have stable symptoms, meaning mild impairment but still able to take care of themselves and continue working.
- The remaining one-third may return to normal memory function.
MCI does not significantly affect daily life at first, so the primary treatment is behavioral modification, such as
- Exercise: Exercise 2-3 times a week, continuously for 20-30 minutes each time, choosing activities suitable for your age, such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or light aerobics.
- Stimulate brain function: such as finding hobbies, playing games, practicing mental arithmetic.
- Social activities: participate in family activities.
- Control chronic disease factors: such as hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes.
Initially, doctors may schedule follow-ups every 3 months. If symptoms remain stable, the follow-up interval may be extended to every 6-12 months. However, if symptoms suggest possible progression to Alzheimer’s, medication may be considered, often including extracts from Ginkgo biloba leaves and certain vitamins that help slow the progression from MCI to Alzheimer’s.
What is the chance of developing dementia if you have had MCI?
If you have MCI, the chance of developing Alzheimer’s increases by 10-15% per year. Therefore, it is recommended to closely monitor symptoms with a specialist because early intervention in MCI can be quite effective in reducing the risk of progressing to dementia.
“MCI can be found starting from age 50 and importantly, it may lead to dementia in the future. If you experience symptoms as described by the doctor, it is recommended to consult a physician for evaluation, monitoring, and treatment of MCI before it progresses to dementia. Early treatment yields better and more effective results.”
Dr. Panisara Khantisophon
Neurologist
Brain and Nervous System Center
Phyathai 3 Hospital
