Dementia is something that affects around 6 million people in the U.S. each year.
The term dementia refers to a variety of conditions that cause a steady decline in memory and other important brain functions. The risks of dementia are greater for certain people than for others.
Read below for the different types of dementia, their symptoms, and more.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s Disease is a type of dementia that is characterized by progressive memory loss. It causes a decline in memory and thinking skills, and eventually leads to death. Alzheimer’s disease usually starts slowly and gets worse over time.
People living with dementia encounter problems with memory, language, and thinking, as well as difficulty in remembering events and completing tasks.
Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease can be done by medication, psychotherapy, or both. Some people with Alzheimer’s may also benefit from physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, or other types of rehabilitation therapies.
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Lewy Body Disease
Lewy body disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects the brain.
Abnormal clumps of protein accumulate in the brain over time. These clumps create blockages that interrupt the connection of nerve cells in the brain. It makes it difficult to think clearly and stay alert.
The signs and symptoms of Lewy body disease can vary from person to person, but common signs include:
- memory problems/loss
- difficulty with reasoning
- hallucinations or delusions
- changes in mood or behavior
The treatment for Lewy Body Disease can include medication, cognitive behavioral therapy, and physical therapy.
Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia is a type of dementia that is caused by problems with the blood vessels in the brain. It can be caused by a stroke, or other conditions that affect the blood supply to the brain.
This kind of dementia is often referred to as “multi-infarct” because it has many causes. It can happen after a stroke, or when there are problems with blood flow to the brain.
It’s important for people with vascular dementia to have regular checkups and screenings for other health conditions. These might be because of diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes.
Fronto-Temporal Dementia
Fronto-temporal dementia affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. These lobes are responsible for speech, language, memory, and personality.
This type of dementia may cause a person to lose their ability to speak. They may have trouble understanding others. People with this form of disease usually develop memory problems and personality changes over time.
The cause of fronto-temporal dementia is unknown. In some cases, fronto-temporal dementia may be caused by head trauma or an infection. The condition most often occurs between the ages of 60 and 80.
Early/Younger Onset Dementia
Early onset dementia is a condition that affects people before the age of 65. It is the most common and the most aggressive type of dementia. It is twice as likely to occur in males than females.
The signs of early onset dementia are very similar to those of Alzheimer’s disease.
Understanding the Different Types of Dementia
There are many different types of dementia, each with its own causes, symptoms, and treatments. It is important to see a doctor if you think you or a loved one may have dementia, as early diagnosis and treatment can improve quality of life.
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