DOCTORS EXPLAIN HOW DEMENTIA AND ALZHEIMER'S DIFFER, PLUS SIGNS TO WATCH FOR
When it comes to cognitive decline, the terms dementia and Alzheimer's are often used interchangeably. But they actually refer to different concepts. And understanding the distinction between dementia vs Alzheimer's is essential for proper diagnosis, treatment and care. Here, doctors share the key differences that set these two conditions apart..
Dementia vs Alzheimer's: What you need to know
Dementia and Alzheimer's are often discussed together, especially when it comes to reducing our risk of memory lapses as we age.. It can lead many to assume they're essentially the same illness. However, dementia is not a specific disease. "Instead, it's an umbrella term used to describe a range of symptoms that affect cognition and behavior," says Michael McGrath, MD, chief clinical officer and medical director at The Ohana Hawaii. "The differentiating symptoms of dementia depend on the type of dementia the person is diagnosed with."
According to Dr. McGrath, Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia and is responsible for up to 80 percent of cases. "Alzheimer's is partly caused by a buildup of tau and amyloid proteins in the brain," he explains. "This causes the brain cells to die over time, resulting in cognitive decline."
Bruce Willis' Family Shares Dementia Updates-See Early Symptoms to Watch For
If you've heard the news about Bruce Willis' health in recent years, you know that the actor is battling dementia. Tallulah Willis, his daughter with ex-wife Demi Moore, recently provided an update on the Die Hard star's condition. And his wife, Emma Heming Willis, also shared a glimpse at how the rest of his family […]Symptoms of Alzheimer's disease
While the symptoms of dementia vary depending on a person's specific diagnosis, the early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease are fairly consistent. The initial symptoms are characterized by progressive memory loss, says Courtney Scott, MD, medical director at Momentous Recovery Group. He adds that a person's elementary cognitive skills, such as orientation, comprehension, recognition and thought processes, are also altered.
Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease. But Dr. McGrath notes that there are medicines that can improve symptoms and slow down the progression of the condition.
It's also important to note that Alzheimer's disease typically develops in adults who are 65 years or older and often gets worse over time. However, noticing forgetfulness or lack of awareness of time or place could be a sign of early-onset Alzheimer's.
Symptoms of other types of dementia
Since dementia encompasses a variety of diseases, it is crucial to recognize some of the characteristics of other forms of cognitive decline. Besides Alzheimer's disease, Dr. McGrath says common types of dementia include Lewy body, frontotemporal and vascular dementia. Here's how they differ:
Lewy body dementia
While beloved actor Robin Williams was thought to have Alzheimer's disease, reports after his passing showed signs of Lewy body dementia instead. "In Lewy dementia, there is a presence of abnormal protein-in this case, ‘Lewy bodies'-which in turn inhibits other cells in the brain from communicating, causing problems in movement and cognitive functions," says Dr. Scott.
It's a progressive disease that affects thinking, mood, behavior and movement. Dr. Mgrath adds that "people with this type of dementia may experience recurrent visual hallucinations and trouble sleeping." Memory loss is also common, but it's not as prominent here as it is in those with Alzheimer's.
Frontotemporal dementia
"Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a rare type of dementia that affects the nerve cells in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain," says Dr. McGrath. "Physical symptoms like tremors are common, and a person with FTD might also experience behavioral changes." Actor Bruce Willis made headlines when he was diagnosed with the condition in 2023.
Someone with FTD may also notice changes in personality or mood and difficulties with language. Dr. McGrath points out that people who have FTD tend to have longer life expectancies after diagnosis compared to those with Alzheimer's disease or Lewy body dementia.
Is It Just a Brain Blip or Something More? See the Early Signs of Dementia
Have you ever walked into a room and forgotten why? While occasional memory lapses are normal, they can sometimes signal early signs of dementia in women. And these can often be dismissed as "just getting older," warns Neal Barnard, MD, FACC, president of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. "Dementia doesn't look very different in […]Vascular dementia
According to MayoClinic, vascular dementia is characterized by problems with reasoning, planning, judgment and memory. It occurs when impaired blood flow damages the brain. Typically vascular dementia can develop if you've had a stroke, but it can also result from other conditions that reduce circulation to the brain.
High cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and atrial fibrillation are all risk factors for vascular dementia, which are the same for heart disease and stroke.
How to manage dementia symptoms
While there's no cure for these cognitive diseases, various medications and therapies are available. The Alzheimer's Association reports that there are drugs that can help slow the progression of early-onset Alzheimer's and those that help manage symptoms. Other treatment options can include lifestyle changes like reducing stress and maintaining a familiar home environment.
"However, as the disease progresses, a person with dementia will need quite a bit of support from family members and others," says Dr. McGrath. "Maintaining a daily routine will be important, as this can help reduce confusion in people with dementia."
For more cognitive content
Certain Alzheimer's Risks May Be Within Your Control, Say Doctors: How to Keep Your Mind Sharp
The 2024 Lancet Report Shows That Nearly Half of Dementia Cases Are Preventable-Learn More
This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan. 2024-11-27T19:29:32Z
