Dementia is the progressive degeneration of cognitive function due to disease or damage to the brain. It's not a disease in itself, but a combination of symptoms affecting more than one brain function.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dementia/DS01131 Contrary to popular belief, dementia is not a typical part the life cycle, however it does affect about half of people 85 and older.http://www.medicinenet.com/dementia/article.htmIt is most common in the geriatric population, but it can inflict people of all ages. Many people with dementia are unaware of their symptoms, and generally, the further the dementia has progressed, the less aware sufferers are of their symptoms.
Alzheimer's Disease is the most common cause of dementia in elderly people, although there are other causes such as cardiovascular problems, and Huntington's Disease. There are five classifications of dementia: cortical, subcortical, progressive, primary, and secondary dementia. Each of these types involve different causes, symptoms, and progress at different rates.http://www.medicinenet.com/dementia/page2.htm#tocd
Symptoms
- Memory loss
- Mood swings
- Personality changes
- Difficulty with words and communicating with others
- Confusion in unfamiliar surroundings
- Poor judgment
- Irritation
- Trouble walking
- Paranoid feelings or hallucinations
- Inappropriate actionshttp://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dementia/DS01131/DSECTION=symptoms
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you suffer from dementia, please consult your doctor.
References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
Almost 6.8 million Americans have it to some degree
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Fact:
Mostly occurs in geriatric population
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Fact:
Can start at any age in adulthood
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General cause
Brain cell destruction
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Fact:
Nearly 50% of all pepople over 85 have dementia
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Fact:
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia
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Fact:
Can be caused by stroke
