Dementia

Dementia

What is Dementia?

Dementia is an umbrella term for a group of conditions that gradually impair thinking, memory, and daily functioning. It’s not a specific disease but rather a collection of symptoms caused by damage to brain cells. This damage disrupts how the brain processes information, leading to various problems.

Think of your brain as a complex machine with many interconnected parts. In dementia, some parts of this machine wear down and become less efficient, affecting how the entire system operates.

Who is More at Risk?

While dementia can affect anyone, certain factors increase the risk:

  1. Age: The risk increases significantly as we get older, especially after 65.
  2. Family history: Having close relatives with dementia raises the risk.
  3. Certain health conditions: High blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity can contribute to dementia risk.
  4. Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity can also play a role.

How Does Dementia Occur?

Different forms of dementia have various causes, but some common ones include:

Alzheimer’s disease: This is the most common type, causing protein buildup in the brain that damages brain cells.

Vascular dementia: This occurs due to problems with blood flow to the brain, often caused by strokes or mini strokes.

Lewy body dementia: This involves abnormal protein clumps in the brain that affect movement, thinking, and behavior.

Signs and Symptoms of Dementia:

Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of dementia, but some common ones include:

  1. Memory problems: Forgetting recent events, conversations, or people’s names.
  2. Difficulty thinking and reasoning: Struggling with familiar tasks like planning, problem-solving, or making decisions.
  3. Language challenges: Difficulty finding words, speaking in slurred sentences, or misunderstanding conversations.
  4. Personality and behavior changes: Becoming withdrawn, irritable, anxious, or depressed.
  5. Changes in movement and coordination: Difficulty walking, tremors, or problems with balance.

Psychotherapy / Counselling

Anxiety disorders are commonly treated with psychotherapy. The application of “talk therapy” by our mental health professionals significantly lessens anxiety symptoms and helps with panic attack management.

CBT stands for cognitive behaviour therapy.

Cognitive behaviour therapy is the psychotherapy modality that works the best.
CBT is one of the most popular treatments for problems related to anxiety.

It has been demonstrated that CBT, which focuses on present problems and situations, is beneficial for both adult and paediatric patients.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), frequently a short-term, structured treatment, focuses on the conscious thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that contribute to anxiety.

Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment:

While there’s no cure for most types of dementia, early diagnosis is crucial. It allows for:

  1. Early intervention: Starting treatment can help manage symptoms, slow progression, and improve quality of life for as long as possible.
  2. Planning for the future: Early diagnosis allows individuals and families to make informed decisions about care and support needs.
  3. Participating in research: Early diagnosis can open doors to participate in research studies that might lead to future advancements in prevention or treatment.

Remember, dementia is not a normal part of aging. If you notice any concerning signs in yourself or a loved one, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and guidance.

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