Dementia is a term used to describe a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking and social skills that seriously affect your daily life. It is not a specific disease, but many diseases can cause dementia.
Although dementia often involves memory loss, memory loss has various causes. Memory loss alone does not mean that you have dementia, although it is usually one of the first symptoms of this condition.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of progressive dementia in the elderly, but there are many other causes of dementia. Depending on the cause, some symptoms of dementia may return.
Symptoms:
Dementia symptoms vary depending on the cause, but common signs and symptoms include:
- Memory loss, which is usually noticed by someone else
- Difficulty communicating or finding words
- Difficulty with visual and spatial abilities, such as getting lost while driving
- Difficulty reasoning or problem-solving
- Difficulty handling complex tasks
- Difficulty with planning and organizing
- Difficulty with coordination and motor functions
- Confusion and disorientation
When to see a doctor?
What are the different types of dementia?
- Alzheimer’s disease, the most common dementia diagnosis among older adults. It is caused by changes in the brain, including abnormal buildups of proteins, known as amyloid plaques and tau tangles.
- Frontotemporal dementia, a rare form of dementia that tends to occur in people younger than 60. It is associated with abnormal amounts or forms of the proteins tau and TDP-43.
- Lewy body dementia, a form of dementia caused by abnormal deposits of the protein alpha-synuclein, called Lewy bodies.
- Vascular dementia, a form of dementia caused by conditions that damage blood vessels in the brain or interrupt the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain.
- Mixed dementia, a combination of two or more types of dementia.
How is dementia diagnosed?
The following methods can also be used to diagnose dementia:
- Cognitive and neurological tests: These tests are used to assess mental and physical functions. These include memory tests, problem solving, language skills and math skills.
- Brain scan: These tests identify strokes, tumors and other problems that can cause dementia. The scan also identifies changes in brain structure and function. The most common examinations are CT, MRI, PET
- Psychiatric evaluation: This assessment can help determine if depression or another mental condition is causing or contributing to a person’s symptoms.
- Genetic testing: Some dementias are caused by human genes. In these cases, a genetic test can help people determine if they are at risk for dementia.
- Blood tests: It is now possible for doctors to order a blood test to measure levels of beta-amyloid, an egg white that is not normally produced in people with Alzheimer’s disease.
Risk factors:
- Age: The risk rises as you age, especially after age 65. However, dementia isn’t a normal part of aging, and dementia can occur in younger people.
- Family history: Having a family history of dementia puts you at greater risk of developing the condition.
- Down syndrome: By middle age, many people with Down syndrome develop early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
Why to choose Dr. Prasad Umbarkar for Dementia Treatment?
Dr. Prasad Umbarkar is one of the best Brain and Spine Specialists in Sangamner, Ahmednagar with vast clinical and surgical experience. He has operated on more than 3000+ patients with Brain and spine-related disorders. Please feel free to call us on 8669177494 or click on Book An Appointment for your best treatment.