With age, almost every person to some extent worsens memory, this manifests itself in the form of forgetfulness. And some people in old age may also experience memory loss, but to a small extent, since such a feature does not affect their daily and normal lives. But if such impaired memory is constantly progressing, this may indicate that there is dementia. What is it?
Dementia - it is possible a partial loss, as well as a decrease in the mental abilities of a person. As a result of such a situation, abilities are significantly reduced and, in principle, it becomes very difficult to lead a full life.
With this disease, memory impairments appear, the previous ability to plan and think normally is worsening. Dementia usually does not progress immediately, but gradually. But it’s impossible to say exactly how much time such a disease will progress, because in each case everything is individual. In some people, dementia can progress very quickly, and in other cases it develops over many years.
Dementia - Causes of the Disease
The main reasons that this disease begins to develop is brain damage. But at the same time, the following diseases can cause dementia: swollen, head injuries, strokes, Parkinson's disease, alcoholism and so on. Yes, some of the disorders that cause dementia can be stopped, but in a huge number of cases to cure such a disease or eliminate the cause of progression is almost impossible.
There may also be such causes of the disease as: head injuries, Huntington’s disease, leukoencephalopathy, vascular dementia, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, multiple sclerosis, multiple atrophy, infectious diseases, poor thyroid activity, vitamin B12 deficiency, heavy metal poisoning, side metals effects of medications, encephalitis, AIDS.
Dementia - symptoms of the disease
Symptoms of the disease can vary, depending on the causes and on which part of the brain was damaged.
In dementia, the following symptoms occur: difficulties when you try to recall certain recent events; the patient may forget well-known places and even close people; it will also be difficult to find words to express your thoughts; it is difficult to carry out ordinary calculations; It will become difficult to perform elementary tasks; in emergency situations it is very difficult to make hasty decisions; at the same time, the patient simply will not be able to control his behavior and mood. It is unlikely that a person suffering from dementia can take care of himself, even hallucinations can occur.
Usually, the first symptoms are: changes in behavior. Such people will not be able to normally show their care and love to others, they are even able to be rude, as well as make explicit comments that relate to a sexual nature. Symptoms that appear very suddenly: vascular dementia, delusional state, worsening of previously existing diseases.
Dementia - a diagnosis of the disease
First you have to go to a specialist, here you will pass brief tests, and after the defining tests, tests are taken and other procedures are done.
Dementia - treatment and prevention
A patient with dementia undergoes special treatment in the intensive care unit. All key indicators are monitored by a physician. Treatment will depend on the symptoms, features and causes. In order to comply with the rules of prevention, you must constantly pass tests. Inspections by specialists and take tests.
