Initially, CJD may manifest itself in symptoms such as memory loss, a change in behaviour, visual disturbances and a lack of coordination. Symptoms are similar to rapid and progressive dementia, and also bear resemblance to symptoms of other neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s. Patients may suffer from insomnia, impaired judgement, and depression. With the development of the disease, mental ability deteriorates rapidly and symptoms become more pronounced. This can involve physical weakness, blindness, lack of physical control and coma. Often in this deteriorating state pneumonia or other infections can occur leading to death.
