Dementia refers to a group of symptoms that may affect thought, memory, personality, and behavior. This eMedTV article explains this topic in greater detail, including information about Alzheimer's disease and other conditions that cause symptoms.
Progressive dementia, primary dementia, and secondary dementia are some of the possible types of dementia. This eMedTV article gives an overview of how the different types are determined and explains how some cases are treatable, while others are not.
Alzheimer's disease and Binswanger's disease are two of the possible causes of dementia. This eMedTV resource discusses other potential causes of the condition, such as alcohol abuse, brain cancer, and Huntington's disease.
Memory loss, difficulties with language, and behavioral problems are possible symptoms of dementia. This eMedTV Web page explains how the signs and symptoms a person experiences may differ, depending on the specific condition causing the dementia.
Doctors making dementia diagnosis often begin with a review of the patient's history and a physical exam. This eMedTV article takes an in-depth look at both of these aspects of diagnosing dementia and provides a list of tests used in the process.
Tests for dementia may include brain scans and the Mini-Mental State Examination. This section of the eMedTV library discusses tests that may help doctors diagnose dementia, such as psychiatric evaluations and blood glucose tests.
When treating dementia, options may include medications and cognitive training. This eMedTV resource describes these and other options in detail; the specific method used will depend on what condition is causing the dementia symptoms.
In many cases involving dementia, supervision needs to be provided around the clock. This eMedTV Web page takes a look at practical and emotional aspects of caring for those with dementia, and provides tips for making the home safe.
Examples of risk factors for dementia include having high cholesterol, smoking, and having diabetes. This eMedTV segment discusses dementia risk factors, including information about how genetics may affect the risk for some types of dementia.
Some of the current research on dementia includes work on a vaccine that may help prevent dementia. This eMedTV resource takes a detailed look at various research studies being conducted to better understand, diagnose, treat, and prevent this condition.
By keeping blood pressure and cholesterol at healthy levels, you may be able to prevent dementia. This eMedTV article discusses these and other factors that may help prevent this condition, such as formal education, mental stimulation, and certain drugs.
Poisoning, infection, and certain conditions can lead to childhood dementia. This eMedTV segment covers possible causes of dementia in childhood, such as Niemann-Pick disease, Batten disease, and other conditions.
