When we are beyond a certain age and we find that there is a decline in our memory, many of us may fear that we are suffering from dementia symptoms.
The idea of losing our mental abilities is terrifying to many of us. The good news is that most people do suffer a certain amount of memory impairment as we age. Learning the symptoms of dementia can help us identify when it is dementia and get the help we need for our loved ones or ourselves.
Unlike regular memory loss due to age, there are specific issues that come with dementia.
There are several types of dementia including vascular dementia and Alzheimer?s disease and the symptoms can vary depending on which one of these conditions we have.
Here is a look at these two disorders and the symptoms that you or someone you love may show if either of these two disorders are present.
Alzheimer?s Disease
Alzheimer?s is perhaps the most well-known form of dementia. not only is there a gradual memory loss, there is also an inability to learn new skills or retain new information.
Therefore, a person with Alzheimer?s may be incapable of remembering that they have moved or that there have been changes to their life.
They tend to repeat themselves when speaking and may become confused and misplace objects that they use. as the disease progresses, they also tend to become restless and wander more.
Their personality may change and they can become irritable, anxious and depressed.
Vascular Dementia
There is a second form of dementia called vascular dementia. unlike Alzheimer?s disease, which is a gradual process, there may be a sudden loss of memory or mental function.
There may be other signs of mental impairment that can be quite similar to a stroke in many ways.
These can include a loss of motor skills, an inability to walk and paralysis.
Other physical symptoms can include a loss of bladder or bowel function.
If you think that someone in your life is suffering from either of these forms of dementia, it is very important that they get a proper medical diagnosis so that treatment can begin.
Depending on the form of dementia that is present, treatment methods may include medication, physical therapy and other support that is designed to help the patient establish routines and develop coping mechanisms that can keep them living independently for as long as possible.
There are specific tests that can be performed by trained professionals in order to diagnose whether someone is suffering from dementia or whether they are simply experiencing age-related memory loss.
If someone you love has been diagnosed with either vascular dementia or Alzheimer?s disease, it is important to find out whether there is any counseling or support for yourself as this can be a frightening and stressful time.
The Good News
The good news is that it is now easier to diagnose dementia at an early stage and new therapies and medications are being developed that can help preserve mental function for as long as possible.
There is no reason why someone who has dementia cannot live comfortably for quite some time to come. back to Womens Health Questions home page.The statements herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease. All information here is intended for general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting any new supplement, diet or fitness regimen.Privacy Policy ? Disclaimer ? Terms of Use
