Dementia

Dementia

Dementia is a problem that occurs in the brain, thereby making it difficult for an individual to learn, remember, as well as communicate. In the case of acute dementia, the person fails to take care of himself. A person’s personality or mood may also change due to dementia. In the initial stages, trouble thinking and memory loss may bother an individual afflicted with dementia. However, during the later stages, problems such as disruptive behavior may come to the forefront. Unfortunately, the person suffering from dementia is not aware of these problems.

The destruction of the brain cells leads to dementia. Stroke, head injury, brain tumor or problem such as Alzheimer’s disease may destroy brain cells. In some cases, dementia is reported to be hereditary.

The common symptoms associated with dementia are as follows: recent memory loss, facing trouble in carrying out familiar tasks, place and time disorientation, problems with language, poor judgment, place and time disorientation, misplacing things, problems with abstract thinking, personality changes, mood swings, and loss of initiative.

Some dementia related causes can be treated. But, once the cells of the brain have been damaged, they can’t be replaced. Treatment may either stop or inhibit the loss of further brain cells. However, when the dementia related cause cannot be treated, the focus should be on helping the patient with his/her regular activities and lowering upsetting symptoms. There are some medicated drugs like galantamine (Razadyne), donepezil (Aricept), Tacrine (Cognex), and rivastigmine (Exelon) that help in treating people with dementia. One can also consult with one’s home physician to know about the treatment options.

Many people suffering with dementia don’t need any medicated drug for behavioral problems. However, for some individuals, doctors can prescribe medications to lower agitation, depression, anxiety, or sleeping problems. These wearisome behaviors are common in those afflicted with dementia. Careful dosage of doctor-prescribed drugs can help those suffering with dementia leas a comfortable life.

In addition to medicated drugs, following a healthy diet is also important. It is true that no nutritional supplements or special diets have been discovered yet that can reverse or prevent multi-infarct dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, yet a well-balanced diet helps in maintaining the overall good health of a person. Bring about improved dietary changes may help prevent further strokes in cases of multi-infarct dementia.

Friends as well as family members can help people with dementia in coping up with their physical activities, daily routines, and social contacts. Those suffering from dementia need to keep informed about the minute details of their lives like the place where they live, time of day, what’s going on in the world or in the home etc. People in the early stages of this disease can find help in their day-to-day leading with the help of memory aids. Some families realize that a list of day to day plans, a big calendar, notes regarding simple safety measures as well as written directions demonstrating the ways of using common household appliances are extremely useful aids for treating people with dementia.