Dementia

Around 14% of Americans over 70 suffer from some dementia. At Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute, with offices in Bethlehem, Lilburn, and Braselton, Georgia, the board-certified neurologists diagnose dementia and offer customized treatment to help you maintain a healthy and independent life for as long as possible. Call the office nearest you to schedule a consultation or reach out online.

What is dementia?

Dementia is the collective term for conditions that cause the loss of cognitive skills like thinking, problem-solving, and remembering. In many cases, dementia can progress to the point when your behavioral abilities are so impaired that you can’t perform routine daily activities.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, making up about 80% of dementia diagnoses. Vascular dementia is the second most common type of the condition.

You can also develop dementia as a complication of thyroid problems and vitamin deficiencies. Having a concussion or traumatic brain injury can also increase your risk of dementia.

What are the early warning signs of dementia?

Dementia usually develops slowly, and a family member might notice the signs before you do. Some of the common symptoms of dementia include:

• Memory loss
• Difficulty finding the right words
• Reduced visual and spatial abilities
• Diminished reasoning and problem-solving skills
• Decreased coordination and motor function
• Confusion and disorientation
• Personality changes
• Depression and anxiety
• Inappropriate behavior
• Paranoia
• Agitation
  

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute right away. The earlier you start treatment for dementia, the more benefit you will get from it.

How is dementia diagnosed?

No single test can identify dementia, so specialists provide comprehensive exams and assessments to determine the condition causing symptoms.

In addition to reviewing your medical history, symptoms, and general health, they may order lab tests, MRIs, and electroencephalograms (EEG) to monitor brain activity. Your doctor can also do cognitive and neurological tests to measure your thinking, memory, language, and reasoning skills.

How is dementia treated?

When your specialist understands your condition, they create a treatment plan tailored specifically to address your needs. While there’s no cure for dementia, they can help you control and manage your symptoms.

Your treatment plan can include medication, lifestyle changes, and/or neurofeedback. Your Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute doctor could also recommend making changes to your environment and taking part in occupational therapy to help you stay safe and independent for as long as possible.

If you’re concerned about dementia, call Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute by phone or online.