Dementia includes many types of conditions that affect your memory, language, and daily skills, among other issues. In most cases, dementia affects older adults and is usually linked to aging. But early-onset dementia is known to occur in younger and middle-aged adults, too. 

When you have dementia, damage occurs throughout your brain cells, possibly due to degeneration or stroke. This damage interrupts your brain cells’ normal ability to send and receive messages. This interference in communication is what leads to the dementia symptoms you experience. 

While not every type of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, Alzheimer’s is one of the most common forms, accounting for roughly 80% of dementia cases. Alzheimer’s occurs when you have abnormally high protein levels on the inside and outside of brain cells, which disrupts communication. This condition affects the hippocampus, which is your brain’s memory bank and learning center. 

The changes that occur in your brain when you have dementia are permanent and tend to worsen over the years. Because of this, early intervention is critical to delaying the progression of the disease. It’s very important to come into Premier Neurology if you or someone you care about experience any of the following symptoms:

• Personality changes
• Worsening confusion
• Short-term memory loss
• Withdrawal from enjoyable activities
• Difficulty planning and making meals
• Forgetfulness and missing appointments
• Frequent loss of everyday items, like your keys or wallet

It’s important for you to know that not every memory loss is dementia, and not every memory loss is just memory loss. 

Your doctor at Premier Neurology gathers a comprehensive analysis of your symptoms and conducts neurocognitive testing for dementia to get to the root of your condition. Once your neurologist diagnoses your dementia, they educate you about your health and counsel you about which treatment options are available. 

Dementia requires personalized care that involves precise attention to detail from a trusted provider. Premier Neurology is dedicated to helping you improve your quality of life and providing the most up-to-date treatments available. 

While no cure exists for dementia, several solutions are available to slow down or stop the progression. Your neurologist may recommend:

• Dementia medications, such as cholinesterase inhibitors or memantine 
• Environmental modifications
• Occupational therapy
• Strength training 
• Activity planning

Rest assured, with the help of Premier Neurology, you can expect the care you need for dementia-related issues of varying complexities.

Premier Neurology provides comprehensive diagnostic and treatment care for dementia. If you or someone you care about has dementia, book an exam online or by phone with either office today.