Dementia Specialist

What is dementia?

Dementia is a medical term that describes the general loss of memory, thinking abilities, language, and problem-solving skills. Without treatment, progressive dementia can interfere with your day-to-day life, impacting your independence. 

While dementia has no known cure, early intervention can significantly improve your quality of life.

What are the symptoms of dementia?

The symptoms of dementia may seem subtle at first, but over time they can affect your mood, behavior, and physical fitness. Some of the most common signs of dementia include:

• Short-term memory loss
• Evening confusion
• Mental decline
• Personality changes
• Anxiety and depression
• Irritability
• Restlessness
• Unsteady walking
• Wandering or getting lost
• Inability to understand language
• Difficulty speaking

If you or a loved one has any of the above symptoms, an early diagnosis can help slow the progression of dementia.

What causes dementia?

There are many conditions that cause dementia, such as:

Alzheimer’s disease

The most common cause of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative condition that causes memory loss, mental decline, and more.

Vascular dementia

Vascular dementia occurs due to damage to the blood vessels that supply your brain with oxygen-rich blood.

Huntington’s disease

Huntington’s disease causes the nerve cells in your brain and spinal cord to slowly degrade over time. A gradual decline in your ability to think clearly typically appears in your 30s or 40s.

Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease is a central nervous system disorder that affects your movement, balance, and cognition.

What are the treatments for dementia?

The best dementia treatment depends on the severity and progression of your condition. Certain cognitive tests and neurological evaluations can help diagnose dementia. The team at JKC Neurology Medical Group may also recommend blood work.

In addition, an MRI, CT scan, or PET scan can help determine the progression of your condition.

JKC Neurology Medical Group uses a multi-modality approach to treat dementia. 

Along with medication, they may recommend occupational therapy to help you build better coping strategies for your condition. Modifying your environment also helps keep you safe in your home as your condition progresses.

There are many supplements that may help improve your memory and cognitive function, including herbal remedies and E vitamins. 

The team also recommends establishing a nighttime routine, as dementia symptoms often worsen at night. Regular exercise also counters restlessness and protects brain function. 

The team also offers innovative transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, a painless and safe treatment that adjusts the chemistry in your brain. 

To schedule an appointment with JKC Neurology Medical Group, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.