What illness might irritability and quick temper in the elderly be a precursor to?

Irritability and quick temper in the elderly may be early signs of various diseases, commonly including Alzheimer's disease, hyperthyroidism, cerebral infarction, depression, and anxiety disorders. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Alzheimer's disease: In the early stages, this condition affects cognitive function and emotional regulation in the brain. Elderly individuals may become irritable and easily angered due to declining memory and impaired judgment. They may also exhibit abnormal daily behaviors such as repetitive actions or loss of interest in activities, with symptoms progressively worsening over time.

2. Hyperthyroidism: Excessive secretion of thyroid hormones accelerates metabolism and increases nervous system excitability, leading to irritability and agitation in older adults. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as palpitations, hand tremors, weight loss, and excessive sweating. Thyroid function tests can help confirm the diagnosis.

3. Cerebral infarction: This cerebrovascular condition may damage brain regions involved in emotional regulation, reducing the elderly person's ability to control emotions, resulting in sudden irritability and anger. It may also present with other neurological symptoms such as limb numbness, slurred speech, and dizziness, necessitating prompt evaluation of brain health.

4. Depression: Depression in the elderly is often overlooked. Besides low mood, some patients primarily exhibit irritability and anger. Common accompanying symptoms include sleep disturbances, reduced appetite, and loss of confidence in life. If left untreated, it can negatively impact physical health and social functioning over time.

5. Anxiety disorder: When elderly individuals remain in a prolonged state of anxiety, they may become irritable and easily angered due to excessive worry and tension. Additional symptoms often include restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and frequent feelings of impending doom. Severe cases can significantly disrupt daily routines and overall mental and physical well-being.

If an elderly person shows persistent irritability and anger, closely observe whether other symptoms are present. Prompt medical evaluation is essential to identify potential underlying conditions through professional assessment and testing.