Dementia

Overview

Dementia is a broad term encompassing various conditions that impact cognitive function, memory, reasoning, personality, mood, and behavior. It leads to a decline in mental abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. Approximately 50% of people aged 85 and older experience some form of dementia.

Types of Dementia

1. Alzheimer’s Disease: The most prevalent cause of dementia, Alzheimer’s affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It results from abnormal protein deposits in the brain.
2. Vascular Dementia: Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain due to damaged blood vessels, often resulting from strokes.
3. Dementia with Lewy Bodies: Characterized by abnormal protein deposits (Lewy bodies) in brain cells, leading to cognitive decline.
4. Frontotemporal Dementia: Affects behavior, language, and personality due to damage in the frontal and temporal lobes.
5. Mixed Dementia: A combination of different types of dementia.
6. Dementia due to Parkinson’s Disease: Associated with Parkinson’s disease and affects movement and cognition.
7. Reversible Dementia: Some cases are reversible, caused by factors like medication side effects or thyroid problems.

Causes of Dementia

• Alzheimer’s Disease: The primary cause, involving brain cell damage and protein accumulation.
• Vascular Factors: High blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol contribute to vascular dementia.
• Genetics: Family history plays a role.
• Infections and Diseases: Brain infections, traumatic brain injury, and metabolic disorders.
• Toxic Exposure: Heavy metals, pesticides, and alcohol abuse.
• Age: Dementia risk increases with age.

Risk Factors of Dementia

• Advanced Age: The risk rises significantly after 65, doubling every five years.
• Race: Prevalence varies by race: Blacks (14%), Hispanics (12%), Non-Hispanic whites (10%), American Indian and Alaska Natives (9%), and Asian and Pacific Islanders (8%).
• Other Factors: Cardiovascular conditions, genetics, and lifestyle choices.

Symptoms of Dementia

Preventions of Dementia

• Stay mentally and physically active.
• Manage cardiovascular risk factors.
• Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
• Socialize and engage in stimulating activities.

Diagnosis of Dementia

• Patient History: Assess family history and head injuries.
• Laboratory Tests: Blood and spinal fluid examinations.
• Psychological Examination: Evaluate mental health conditions.
• Cognitive and Neuropsychological Tests: Assess cognitive abilities.
• Neurological Tests: Check visual perception, movements, and reflexes.
• Imaging: CT scan, MRI, and PET scans to detect brain abnormalities.

Treatment for Dementia

• Medication: Cholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., Donepezil) and NMDA receptor antagonists (e.g., Memantine).
• Therapy: Occupational therapy to adapt to daily life.
• Nutrition: Include fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Self-Care Strategies: Modify tasks and create a dementia-friendly environment.

When to seek medical attention ?

• If you or a loved one experiences memory loss, confusion, or behavioral changes.
• Seek medical evaluation promptly.