Alzheimer’s is arguably the most well known type of dementia, but there are several other types of dementias that can become more prevalent as we age. Dementia is a brain condition that involves some sort of degeneration that leads to a loss of function. This can be a loss of memory, as seen in Alzheimer’s, or it can involve a loss of control of some other function. Many of these dementias can lead to irreversible changes that make it impossible for that individual to maintain basic functioning and living. The earlier that these diseases can be recognized, the better treatment options that may be available.
The treatment options and management for them all vary, so that’s why it’s important to know what they are and how to recognize them. Certain dementias also have certain risk factors so if you or a loved one has any of these risk factors, then it’s important for you to recognize them and try to avoid further damage.
Alzheimer’s Dementia
Alzheimer’s Dementia is the degeneration of the hippocampus, which is the part of the brain responsible for creating and consolidating memories. After this part of the brain has been reduced substantially, other parts of the brain, like the cerebral cortex begin to be degenerate. Early symptoms involve persistent memory changes without the ability to recall anything. For example, misplacing your keys in old age may be common practice, but if you can retrace your steps, then you most likely do not have Alzheimer’s. Constant forgetting of individuals’ names, tasks, location, conversations, etc. are all common symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Eventually, these individuals may have personality changes and begin to act like completely different people or revert to a different time in their lives and truly live there. There is no treatment for this dementia, but early recognition can lead to treatments that can slow down progression to death.
Frontotemporal Dementia
Frontotemporal Dementia is also known as Pick’s disease. This disease primarily affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. This leads to changes in personality, judgement, and the inability of one to take care of themselves and reason or plan. The frontal lobes are responsible for executive functioning, planning, and making decisions. Those with this disease may begin to talk or act inappropriately in public (passing gas, overly sexual, etc.). There is a hereditary risk factor, but most cases are spontaneous. No treatments exist, to date, but there are some medications that can slow the progression.
Vascular Dementia
Vascular Dementia is a very slow-progressing form of dementia. It is caused by a large stroke, or several small strokes. Some of these may even be “silent” meaning they did not cause any symptoms, but they still led to some parts of the brain no receiving enough oxygen. The brain is very sensitive to a lack of oxygen. When small parts of plaques break off and block the blood flow to different parts of the brain, then this is known as a stroke. This blockage can lead to ischemia, or parts of the brain that are deoxygenated, which can cause that tissue to die and become non-functional. When several of these happen, then there are several ischemic parts of the brain. Alzheimer’s disease normally presents with memory issues, but Vascular Dementia normally presents with poor planning and executive functioning. It’s progression may also be so slow that it is hard to recognize. If you, or your loved one has high blood pressure or cholesterol, then they may be at increased risk for this type of dementia.
Huntington’s Disease
Huntington’s Disease is a genetic mutation in the brain that leads to several dysfunctions. One of the main keys about this disease is that it affects relatively young males who are in their 40s. Also, because it’s a genetic disease, it affects family members – usually at an earlier and earlier age. Huntington’s disease is characterized by memory loss, personality changes, and strange, uncontrollable movements. It’s due to a degeneration of the part of the brain responsible for creating the hormone dopamine that plays a major role in controlling movement. There is no treatment or cure for this disease, and jobs or activities that could endanger the lives of others should be discontinued upon confirmation of this disease (driving, flying airplanes, etc.).
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Prion Disease
Creutzfeldt-Jakob Prion Disease is caused by several misfolded proteins called prions. Normally, this happens after eating a cow’s brain that has this disease. Its very rapidly progressive and very fatal. Symptoms include depression, personality changes, trouble functioning or memorizing things, and movement abnormalities, similar to Huntington’s Disease. If you notice these changes, see if there was an exotic meal, or if they recently traveled in order to include this as a potential diagnosis.
Lewy Body Dementia
Lewy Body Dementia is a type of disease that involves the accumulation of proteins called alpha synuclein, or Lewy Bodies. When they accumulate, they lead to a type of dementia that involves movement during the sleep where they act out their dreams, hallucinations, abnormal and uncontrollable movements, along with trouble concentrating and functioning. The most important distinguishing factor of this dementia is the fact that they hallucinate and act out their dreams. This will be very important in recognizing this particular type of dementia. There is no cure, but there are certain treatments to help reduce the burden of symptoms.
Parkinson’s Disease with Dementia
Parkinson’s disease is a type of dementia that is primarily characterized by movement abnormalities. These patients take very small, shuffling steps, have almost rigid joints, and tremors when they are just resting. Parkinson’s is due to a degeneration of the part of the brain responsible for controlling movement. There is no cure, but treatment with dopamine analogues can help reduce the burden of symptoms.
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus is a build up of fluid in the brain that leads to pressure on different parts of the brain. This pressure can cause issues with concentrating, memory, walking, and other functions. However, there ae no headaches or swelling which differentiates it from other types of Hydrocephalus. This disorder can be treated by draining the fluid and reducing the pressure in the brain.
Wernicke’s Korsakoff
Wernicke’s Korsakoff is caused by alcoholism. This leads to a degeneration of the mammillary bodies, small brain structures, that can affect one’s memory. Gait abnormalities, or the ability to walk, may also be negatively impacted. Those who had a long history of alcohol abuse may be at increased risk for developing Wernicke’s-Korsakoff, as well as those that have a thiamine (B1) deficiency. Providing thiamine replacement and abstaining from alcohol may help to restore some function.
As the primary caretaker, it can become distressing continuously be responsible for the upkeep of an individual. If you or a loved one is struggling with one of these dementias, and need assistance, Diverse Health Services may be the perfect fit for your family. We are a home health company that provides assistance with activities of daily living, transportation, meals, cleaning, supervision, company and more. Please check out our services page to see if we are the right fit for your caretaking needs.
Resources: https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/guide/alzheimers-dementia#091e9c5e8001055b-1-4
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