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Abnormal Cognitive Process C5970252

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A condition affecting thinking, memory, or other cognitive functions. This can impact daily activities and quality of life. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include therapy or medication.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
G43.909
ICD-11
8A00.0
Body system
neurologic
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Warning signs - seek immediate care

!

Sudden confusion delirium

Abrupt onset of severe confusion with hallucinations and agitated behavior.

Seek immediate medical attention if confusion develops suddenly or is accompanied by fever, as this may indicate a serious condition.

!

Loss of consciousness

Temporary loss of awareness and responsiveness.

This is a medical emergency. Call emergency services immediately if someone loses consciousness.

Memory impairment

(neurologic)

Difficulty remembering recent events or recalling stored information.

Frequency: 80-90% of patients

Difficulty concentrating

(neurologic)

Inability to maintain focus on tasks or sustain attention.

Frequency: 75-85% of patients

Mental confusion

(neurologic)

State of bewilderment with impaired thinking and decision-making.

Frequency: 50-60% of patients

Disorientation

(neurologic)

Confusion about time, place, or personal identity.

Frequency: 40-50% of patients

Word-finding difficulty

(neurologic)

Trouble retrieving familiar words during speech or writing.

Frequency: 45-55% of patients

Sleep disturbances

(neurologic)

Insomnia, fragmented sleep, or excessive daytime sleepiness.

Frequency: 40-50% of patients

Fatigue

(constitutional)

Persistent tiredness and lack of energy affecting daily activities.

Frequency: 35-45% of patients

Anxiety

(psychiatric)

Persistent worry, nervousness, or unease about everyday situations.

Frequency: 30-40% of patients

Headaches

(neurologic)

Recurring head pain, often described as dull or pressure-like.

Frequency: 15-25% of patients

Personality changes

(psychiatric)

Noticeable shifts in behavior, mood, or interpersonal interactions.

Frequency: 10-20% of patients

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Cognitive rehabilitation therapy

Structured therapeutic interventions targeting specific cognitive domains affected by abnormal cognitive processes. Evidence-based techniques include memory strategies, attention training, and executive function exercises.

psychological
2

Exercise prescription and weight management

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
3

Cognitive stimulating activities

Engagement in mentally stimulating activities such as puzzles, reading, learning new skills, and social interaction. Regular intellectual challenge supports neuroplasticity and cognitive reserve development.

lifestyle

Additional treatment options

Integrated movement therapy

Structured physical exercise programs have demonstrated benefits for cognitive function through improved cerebral blood flow and neurochemical changes. Aerobic exercise 3-5 times weekly is commonly recommended.

physical_therapy

Neuroprotective nutrition

Dietary approaches emphasizing omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and balanced macronutrient intake support brain health. Mediterranean-style dietary patterns have shown cognitive benefits in research.

dietary

Neuropsychological monitoring

Regular assessment of cognitive function using standardized neuropsychological measures to track progression and response to interventions. Monitoring informs treatment planning and adjustments.

monitoring

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Abnormal Cognitive Process C5970252?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

American Psychiatric Association. Practice guideline for the treatment of patients with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Am J Psychiatry. 2007;164(12 Suppl):5-56.

guideline2007View source →
2

Budson AE, Solomon PR. New criteria for Alzheimer disease and mild cognitive impairment: implications for the practicing clinician. Neurologist. 2012;18(5):231-239.

review2012View source →
3

American Academy of Neurology. Practice parameter: diagnosis of dementia (evidence-based review). Neurology. 2001;56(9):1143-1153.

position_statement2001View source →
4

Ward A, Arrighi HM, Michels S, Cedarbaum JM. Mild cognitive impairment: disparity of incidence and prevalence estimates. Alzheimers Dement. 2012;8(1):14-21.

meta_analysis2012View source →
5

Winblad B, Palmer K, Kivipelto M, et al. Mild cognitive impairment—beyond controversies, towards a consensus: report of the International Working Group on Mild Cognitive Impairment. J Intern Med. 2004;256(3):240-246.

consensus2004View source →
6

Petersen RC, Thomas RG, Grundman M, et al. Vitamin E and donepezil for the treatment of mild cognitive impairment. N Engl J Med. 2005;353(9):951-962.

clinical_trial2005View source →
7

Salloway S, Ferris S, Goldman M, eds. The American Psychiatric Publishing Textbook of Alzheimer Disease and Other Dementias. Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Publishing; 2009.

textbook2009
8

Gauthier S, Reisberg B, Zaudig M, et al. Mild cognitive impairment. Lancet. 2006;367(9518):1262-1270.

review2006View source →

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Abnormal Cognitive Process C5970252. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy