INTRODUCTION
Definition: Dementia is a collective term used to describe various symptoms of cognitive decline, such as forgetfulness, confusion, and difficulty with thinking and problem-solving, severe enough to interfere with daily life. Impact: Affects memory, thinking, orientation, comprehension, calculation, learning capacity, language, and judgement.
STAGES OF DEMENTIA
1.Mild (Early) StageMemory lapses, such as forgetting recent events or names. Difficulty with problem-solving and complex tasks. Trouble with planning and organizing. Changes in mood or personality, such as increased anxiety or irritability. 2. Moderate (Middle) Stage Increased memory loss and confusion. Difficulty recognizing family and friends. Inability to learn new things or cope with new situations. Increased risk of wandering and getting lost. Changes in behavior, such as repetitive actions or hallucinations. 3. Severe (Late) Stage Significant memory loss, including inability to recognize close family members. Severe cognitive decline and disorientation. Loss of ability to communicate effectively. Difficulty with basic physical functions, such as walking, sitting, and swallowing. Increased susceptibility to infections, especially pneumonia.
DIAGNOSIS OF DEMENTIA
1. Medical History and Physical Exam Medical History Detailed review of symptoms and their progression. Family history of dementia or other neurological conditions. Review of medications that could impact cognitive function. Physical Exam Assessment of overall health to rule out other conditions. 2. Cognitive and Neuropsychological Tests Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) A brief 30-point questionnaire used to assess cognitive function. Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) A 30-point test that evaluates different cognitive domains. 3. Brain Imaging Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Detailed images of brain structures to identify abnormalities, atrophy, or strokes. Computed Tomography (CT) Scan Cross-sectional images to detect brain damage, bleeding, or tumors. Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan Shows how the brain is functioning and can detect amyloid plaques (associated with Alzheimer's disease). 4. Laboratory Tests Blood Tests Rule out other conditions that can mimic dementia symptoms, such as vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders, or infections. Spinal Fluid Analysis Check for biomarkers associated with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
SYMPTOMS OF DEMENTIA
(Cognitive Symptoms) Memory Loss: Forgetting recent events or information. Communication Difficulties: Struggling to find words and understand language. Disorientation: Getting lost, confusion about time and place. Impaired Judgment: Difficulty making decisions, poor judgment. (Psychological Symptoms) Personality Changes: Increased irritability, aggression, or apathy. Mood Swings: Rapid changes in mood, anxiety, depression. Hallucinations and Delusions: Seeing or hearing things that aren't there, false beliefs. Apathy and Depression: Loss of interest in activities, social withdrawal.
