Information From Your Health Care Provider

DEMENTIA

Basic information

description

Dementia is a disease that attacks the brain. It is not a normal part of aging. Dementia results in problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. It can interfere with a person's ability to function and take care of everyday tasks. There are many types of dementia. Common types are Alzheimer's disease, multi-infarct, and vascular dementia. Dementia often affects people over age 65.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Memory problems. Forgetfulness, such as about recent events or ordinary information such as birth date and address; not able to recognize family and friends.
Confusion and poor judgment.
Loss of interest in normal activities.
Trouble speaking well.
Disorientation, especially at night.
Poor personal hygiene and appearance.
Sleep problems.
Personality changes.
Anxiety, depression, being suspicious, agitation, wandering, verbal abuse, or being assaultive.
Incontinence, hallucinations, delusions (later stage).

causes

Nerve cells in the brain become damaged and die. Once the cells die, they cannot be replaced. The brain shrinks and brain function deteriorates. Most dementias are progressive (get worse with time) and cannot be cured. There are a few causes of dementia that may be potentially reversible, such as with a brain tumor.

risk increases with

Inadequate blood supply to the brain. It may be due to blood clots, strokes, tumor, high blood pressure, or hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis).
Severe, or repeated, head injury (such as in boxing).
Infections, such as AIDS or syphilis.
Down syndrome, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's chorea, and some hereditary disorders.
Metabolic disorders, such as thyroid disease.
Certain nutritional deficiencies.
Toxic causes (alcoholism, drugs, heavy metals).

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Most dementias are not preventable. Reducing risk factors may help. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, protect yourself from head injuries, and control chronic illnesses.

expected outcomes

Most dementias progress at varying rates, a few stay the same, and a few may reverse with treatment of a cause.

possible complications

Each type of dementia has its own complications. Most have a downward course that leads to death.

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

Family members may notice early behavior changes and seek medical care. The health care provider will do a physical exam and ask questions about the symptoms. There is no specific test to diagnose dementia. Medical tests may include cognitive tests (answering questions), blood, urine, and spinal fluid studies, heart studies, CT, MRI, PET scans, or others. Testing helps rule out other disorders that may cause similar symptoms.
A diagnosis of dementia is overwhelming, both for the patient and the family. Educate yourselves as much as possible about what to expect and how to plan for it. With early diagnosis, the patient can take part in making decisions for the future.
Treatment will depend on the severity of the symptoms. Different drugs are available that can help slow the progress of some dementias (such as Alzheimer's) .
Drugs to treat the behavior symptoms can help make a patient more comfortable and make their care easier.
Caring for a family member with dementia is a difficult task. Caregivers need to take care of themselves. Joining a support group for caregivers may be helpful.
To learn more: Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl 17, Chicago. Il 60601; (800) 272-3900; website: www.alz.org.

medications

Drugs as needed to help control behavior symptoms (insomnia, agitation, wandering, depression, anxiety, and others) will be prescribed.
Drugs that slow the progress of Alzheimer's disease for a limited time may be prescribed.
Drugs to treat causes of dementia may be prescribed.

activity

Patient activity may require supervision at all times.

diet

Regular diet. Feeding help will eventually be needed.

notify our office if

Symptoms of dementia appear in a family member.
Caregivers of dementia patients have any questions.