Dementia - Symptom, Treatment and cause of Dementia

DESCRIPTION of Dementia

A progressive deterioration of mental capacity in the elderly with a gradual onset and steady deterioration over many years.

Dementia CAUSES

No specific cause, but may be worsened by arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), and alcohol or drug abuse.

SYMPTOMS of Dementia

Deterioration in intellect, leading to confusion, irrational behaviour, inappropriate reactions, poor or jumbled speech patterns, hallucinations (both visual and auditory), and loss of short term memory. Some patients become uninhibited in their language and habits, and may act in a socially unacceptable manner. Symptoms are often worse at night.

Dementia INVESTIGATIONS

No diagnostic blood or other tests. In advanced stages, a CT scan of the brain will show abnormalities.

TREATMENT for Dementia

The patient should be kept in a pleasant, safe, non-threatening environment with adequate medical, nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and general support services. Medications may be given for irrational behaviour, hallucinations and violent tempers, but do not affect the disease process.

Dementia COMPLICATIONS

Death from pneumonia, caused by immobility.

PROGNOSIS for Dementia

No cure. Patients progressively deteriorate until death.