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August 2017
As physicians, our patients often ask about dementia. Dementia is a syndrome that can be used to describe a decline in mental ability that makes it difficult for people to perform basic daily activities. There are various types of dementia including Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, Parkinson's and those associated with abnormal proteins, excess cerebrospinal fluid, increased thiamine deficiency or infections. Mixed dementias reflect a condition where more than one type occurs.
Symptoms of dementia can include memory loss, changes in behavior or personality, confusion, disorientation and hallucinations. While dementia typically occurs in patients over 65, it can be seen in younger people and is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S. Researchers believe that the causes of dementias include a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
While there is no evidence that supplements are useful treatments for the disease, some medications might slow decline and help with symptoms. A July 2017 article in the Lancet identifies factors to reduce our risk for dementia by 35% including education early in life; reducing high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes; treating hearing loss in mid-life; not smoking; getting physical exercise; and reducing depression and social isolation later in life.
While much still needs to be understood, identification of risk and risk reduction through lifestyle modification will help us care for people with dementia. Talk to your physician about concerns you may have.
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These measures include: staying in school until you're at least... Read more |
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