Dementia is an umbrella term for a progressive decline in cognitive function—memory, thinking, and behavior—severe enough to interfere with daily life. Caused by damaged brain cells from neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, early symptoms include mild memory loss, confusion, and difficulty with daily tasks. While incurable, treatments manage symptoms. Early Signs and Symptoms
- Memory Loss: Specifically short-term, such as forgetting recent events or conversations.
- Cognitive Difficulties: Challenges with planning, organizing, language, and problem-solving.
- Behavioral Changes: Uncharacteristic mood swings, depression, or loss of interest in activities.
- Disorientation: Getting lost in familiar places or confusion with time.
Causes and Risk Factors
Dementia occurs when brain cells are damaged and cannot communicate.
- Main Causes: Alzheimer's disease (most common), vascular dementia (linked to stroke), Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia.
- Risk Factors: Aging (especially 65+), smoking, high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, and alcohol misuse.
Types of Dementia
- Alzheimer’s Disease: The most common cause, characterized by amyloid plaques and tau tangles.
- Vascular Dementia: Often caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, frequently following a stroke.
- Lewy Body Dementia: Involves abnormal protein deposits (Lewy bodies), leading to hallucinations and movement issues.
- Frontotemporal Dementia: Primarily affects personality, behavior, and language.