Dementia is a progressive medical condition that deals with the loss of memory, behavioral changes and communication problems. This does not only refer to one condition but a group of illnesses. Dementia is a brain dysfunction that alters the daily activities of the person and will often lead to the incapability of that person to take care of himself. This condition happens in the second part of an individual’s life, mostly after reaching 65 years of age. Half of the people that have dementia are also affected with Alzheimer’s disease. And a third of the population over 90 years of age is affected by moderate or severe dementia.
The destruction of brain cells due to head injuries, or brain tumors can cause dementia. A family history of dementia can also contribute to the development of the condition. Strokes can also lead to dementia, in which it is called vascular dementia. When affected with this condition, a person will exhibit certain symptoms. Some examples are frequent forgetfulness corresponding with states of confusion, difficulty with familiar activities and language problems in which the person is having difficulty using appropriate words and just uses fillers that often cannot be understood. Other symptoms are problems with orientation in which the person gets easily lost, impaired capacity of judgment, putting things in inappropriate places, mood swings, personality changes and completely losing interest in their hobbies.
Persons suffering from dementia often do not notice the symptoms and cannot bring themselves to the doctor. Here comes the role of the relative. If you suspect a relative or a friend to have dementia, it is important to consult a health professional about it. Psychometric tests that include questionnaires and some exercises will be conducted. A neuropsychological exam can also be done. This test though can strain the patient and can cause embarrassment and even hopelessness. It is important give reassurance to the patient, especially by the relative or friend. Tests such as blood test, cerebral liquor tests and electroencephalography or EEG are also available. Other tests are glucose tests, thyroid function tests, urinalysis and head CT or MRI of the head.
Most of the causes of dementia cannot be prevented. In vascular dementia, stopping smoking, eating right, doing regular exercise and preventing diabetes may be done to stop dementia from developing. Otherwise treatment is the only alternative. The aim of the treatment is to lessen the symptoms exhibited by the patient. Physiotherapists and ergotherapists must be consulted for treatment. In the early stages of dementia, therapy in the set of training of thinking and memory functions are done. Medications are also prescribed for the patient. These are antidementias or psychotropic drugs. Acetylcholinesterase is a form of antidementias while psychotropic drugs are lessen the reactive response of the patient as to avoid having to deal with daily activities. This type of treatment though has not been received positively. For one, it produces certain side-effects to the patient. Whichever may be the choice of treatment, the most important thing is the monitoring and the assistance of the person suffering from dementia. He should be placed in special care, either at home or an institution where there can the needed attention can be provided.
