Is dementia a loss of memory?
Yes, and it's even more than that. It affects cognitive abilities and leads to confusion and disorientation. Dementia arises as a result of a variety of underlying medical disorders. Some forms of dementia are progressive, while others are reversible. Let’s understand dementia in detail!
What is Dementia?
Dementia is a combination of symptoms that affect memory along with cognitive and social abilities severely enough to interfere with daily life. There is no specific disease that causes dementia; however, various conditions can lead to this condition.
Memory loss is a common symptom of dementia, but it can be caused by a variety of other factors too. Memory loss is not only the indicator of dementia, however, it is frequently one of the first symptoms of the disorder.
How would one know if the person has dementia?
The following symptoms may be experienced by a dementia patient:
- Psychological changes such as depression, stress and anxiety
- Personality changes
- Difficulty in carrying out complex tasks
- Lack of proper communication and choice of words
- Lack of problem-solving abilities
- Confusion and disorientation
A family history of dementia raises the chances of developing the disease, however, it may not happend with everyone with a family history. At the same time, others without a family history may also develop memory issues as they age.
What are the Causes of Dementia?
Dementia is an indication of a more serious medical problem. The following are some of the causes of dementia:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Traumatic brain injury
- Huntington’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Infection of brain
- Autoimmune disease
- Hematomas
- Medication side effects
- Metabolic disorders
- Nutritional deficiency (Know the 10 Signs Of Nutritional Deficiencies In Kids)
- Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
How to reduce the risk of dementia?
Consider these four tips to lower the overall risk of memory problems.
Participate in activities that stimulate the brain
Consider solving puzzles and gaining a good education; working in a mentally engaging career; and participating in different social activities that need mental focus to reduce the risk of having dementia.
Focus on education and learn new skills
It is a fact that people who spend more time learning create more strong networks of nerve cells. These networks are better suited to deal with cell damage caused by brain illnesses that may lead to dementia.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Eating right, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting regular exercise can all reduce the risk of dementia. Taking the time to effectively manage cholesterol and blood pressure, as well as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol use, have all been found to benefit cognitive health later in life. It's also critical to obtain enough sleep and manage sleep disorders like sleep apnea.
Maintain social interaction
Social engagement is beneficial to the brain at any age. Interacting with others on a regular basis, including family, friends, neighbours, coworkers, and community members, can boost the mood, outlook, and use of the brain. These regular interactions have been found to improve cognitive ability and reduce dementia symptoms.
While there is no cure for most types of dementia, the symptoms can be managed. Memory problems and other cognitive abnormalities can be managed with medications.
Consulting a neurologist on time can help prevent the worsening of symptoms.
Brain is the powerhouse of your body!
Take care of your brain to live a healthy and peaceful life.
