2. Mood Changes – The Emotional Toll of PDD
In addition to cognitive decline, individuals with PDD may exhibit changes in mood and affect. Depression is common, and patients may also experience anxiety, apathy, and irritability.
However, these mood changes are not just a reaction to the diagnosis or the challenges of living with a chronic illness. Instead, they are symptoms of the disease process itself, reflecting the impact of neurodegeneration on the areas of the brain that regulate mood and emotion.
The mood changes seen in PDD can manifest in various ways. A patient with depression might exhibit persistent sadness, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, or significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns.
Anxiety could present as restlessness, excessive worry, or fearfulness. Importantly, these symptoms are persistent and not tied to specific situations or triggers, which differentiates them from typical emotional responses.
The impact of these mood changes on the quality of life for individuals with PDD cannot be underestimated. They may lead to social withdrawal, strained relationships, and reduced participation in meaningful activities.(2)