What is dementia?
Dementia involves a loss of your ability to think, reason, and remember to such an extent that it interferes with daily life. People with dementia experience problems in various areas of functioning, including:
- Memory
- Language skills
- Focus and attention
- Visual perception
- Problem-solving
- Self-care
There are many types of dementia, but Alzheimer’s disease is the most common. Other types include frontotemporal dementia, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia. Lewy bodies are abnormal clumps of protein that occur in the brains of people with Lewy body dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
What are the signs and symptoms of dementia?
Signs and symptoms vary based on the specific type and severity of dementia involved, but may include:
- Memory loss as noticed by a spouse or family member
- Difficulty communicating or finding words
- Impaired visual and spatial skills, like getting lost while driving
- Trouble with planning and organizing
- Difficulty reasoning and problem-solving
- Confusion and disorientation
- Problems with coordination
- Personality changes
- Depression and anxiety
- Inappropriate behavior
- Paranoia, agitation, and possible hallucinations
If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, call the Neurological Institute of Los Angeles right away. These symptoms may be due to a treatable medical condition, such as a nutritional deficiency or normal-pressure hydrocephalus, so it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis.
How is dementia diagnosed?
First, the team at the Neurological Institute of Los Angeles reviews your medical history and performs a physical exam. Your neurologist may request that someone close to you comes to the appointment so they can answer questions about your symptoms as well.
They may also perform a variety of tests to diagnose dementia, such as:
- Cognitive and neuropsychological tests
- Neurological evaluation
- Psychiatric evaluation
- Blood tests
Your doctor may also order imaging tests, such as a computed tomography (CT) scan, MRI, or positron emission tomography (PET) scan. All of these tests help them determine the type of dementia you have and whether it’s progressive or treatable.
How is dementia treated?
Most forms of dementia can’t be cured, but the team at the Neurological Institute of Los Angeles develops a treatment plan to help you manage the symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Dementia treatment may include a variety of methods, including:
- Medications, such as cholinesterase inhibitors
- Occupational therapy
- Modifying the home environment to increase focus and safety
- Getting regular exercise and eating a healthy diet
- Establishing a routine
- Keeping track of tasks on a calendar
The team works together with patients and their families to create an effective management plan for dementia.
Dementia treatments are most effective when started early. Call the Neurological Institute of Los Angeles, or book an appointment online today.
