Dementia

Over 55 million people in the world have some form of dementia, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). While there is currently no cure, early intervention with the expert neurologists at Advanced Medical Care in Brighton Beach (Brooklyn) and Forest Hills (Queens), New York, can help slow the disease’s progression. If you or a loved one shows signs of dementia, don’t hesitate to contact the team. Call the clinic today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

Are there different types of dementia?

Dementia is not one disease but describes multiple conditions that can affect a person’s memory and cognitive function. Most types of dementia are progressive disorders that typically worsen over time. These include:

Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s occurs when small pieces of beta-amyloid proteins create clusters of plaque around nerve cells while twisted pieces of tau proteins form tangles inside the nerves.

Vascular dementia

The second most common type of dementia, vascular dementia, develops when a stroke or vascular disease like atherosclerosis blocks the blood flow to your brain.

Frontotemporal dementia

Frontotemporal dementia typically affects areas of the brain responsible for behavior, language, and personality.

Lewy body dementia

When the alpha-synuclein proteins in the nerves in your brain gather together, they form clusters called Lewy bodies. This type of dementia is called Parkinson’s dementia if your symptoms develop after you’re diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

What are the signs of dementia?

Dementia symptoms can vary depending on the type you have. As the disease progresses, your symptoms may change. Common signs of dementia include:

• Confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Memory loss
• Changes in personality and behavior
• Difficulty planning and problem solving
• Difficulty communicating
  
  

Memory loss is usually the earliest symptom in patients with Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia, while cognitive problems such as difficulty planning or concentrating are often the first symptoms of vascular dementia.

By comparison, extreme personality and behavioral changes are the first symptoms in patients with frontotemporal dementia.

What are the treatments for dementia?

Dementia has no cure, but early intervention can provide support for the daily challenges you may face. The neurology team at Advanced Medical Care delivers comprehensive and integrative care to patients with dementia and their families.

When you partner with Advanced Medical Care, you receive a diagnostic screening for dementia, including a thorough exam to rule out other underlying conditions, a review of your medical history, a mental status exam, and neurological testing.

Managing the symptoms of dementia demands a multifaceted approach to care that may include:

• Behavioral therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Task simplification
• Lifestyle changes
• Exercise
• Diet
• Routine
  
  

Many medications are FDA-approved to treat Alzheimer’s disease. These medications may improve symptoms or help slow the progression of moderate-to-severe dementia.

If you or a loved one experiences personality changes, behavioral shifts, memory loss, or any other signs of dementia, don’t hesitate to call Advanced Medical Care today or schedule an appointment online.