Dementia is a general term that describes a set of symptoms related to the loss of cognitive functions, such as memory, attention and reasoning. There are several types of dementia, each with specific characteristics that allow them to be distinguished from each other. In this article, we will explore the 8 most common forms of loss of cognition associated with different types of dementia.
1. Alzheimer's Dementia
Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia, accounting for approximately 60-70% of all cases. It is characterized by the accumulation of beta-amyloid protein plaques and tau protein tangles in the brain, which causes the gradual loss of nerve cells and, therefore, cognitive functions. Initial symptoms are usually problems with recent memory, difficulty finding words, and disorientation in time and space.
Key symptoms:
- Memory loss
- Difficulty performing daily tasks
- Spatial and temporal disorientation
- Changes in mood and personality
2. Vascular dementia
Vascular dementia is caused by problems in blood flow to the brain, usually due to strokes or mini-strokes that damage brain areas responsible for cognition. Symptoms may appear suddenly or progressively, depending on the severity of the brain damage.
Key symptoms:
- Changes in the ability to pay attention and concentrate
- Problems of reasoning and decision making
- Loss of planning and organizational capacity
- Alterations in the control of emotions
3. Dementia with Lewy bodies
Lewy bodies are abnormal accumulations of proteins in the brain that interfere with cognitive and motor functions. Lewy body dementia shares symptoms of both Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, making it a unique form of dementia with fluctuations in symptoms throughout the day.
Symptoms key:
- Visual hallucinations
- Muscle stiffness and tremors
- Sleep problems and REM sleep disorders
- Sudden changes in cognitive ability
4. Frontotemporal dementia
Frontotemporal dementia primarily affects the frontal and temporal regions of the brain, involved in the control of behavior, language, and emotions. It is characterized by changes in personality and in the way of interacting socially, as well as difficulties in expressive and comprehensive language.
Key symptoms:
- Changes in behavior and personality
- Difficulties in language and communication
- Lack of empathy and social judgment
- Compulsive or impulsive behaviors
5. Dementia with inclusion bodies
This type of dementia is characterized by the accumulation of abnormal proteins in brain cells, known as inclusion bodies. These inclusions will interfere with communication between nerve cells, causing the appearance of progressive cognitive and motor symptoms.
Key symptoms:
- Muscle rigidity and tremors
- Memory loss and cognitive impairment
- Changes in gait and motor difficulties
- Problems of reasoning and decision making
6. Glial body dementia
In this form of dementia, the supporting cells of the brain, known as glia cells, have abnormal inclusions that negatively affect communication between neurons. This results in a progressive loss of cognitive and motor functions as the disease progresses.
Key symptoms:
- Balance and coordination problems
- Memory loss and cognitive difficulties
- Changes in mood and personality
- Alterations in cognitive processing speed
7. Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease dementia
This type of dementia is extremely rare and is associated with a prion disease, which causes rapid and progressive brain damage. Symptoms usually include memory problems, changes in behavior and involuntary movements, leading to rapid cognitive and functional deterioration.
Key symptoms:
- Alterations in movement and coordination
- Memory loss and rapid cognitive decline
- Unusual personality and behavioral changes
- Visual and/or hearing problems
8. HIV-associated dementia
People with HIV who do not receive antiretroviral treatment can develop dementia as a result of the virus infecting the central nervous system. HIV-associated dementia can manifest very similarly to other forms of dementia, with cognitive and motor symptoms that worsen as the infection progresses.
Key symptoms:
- Loss of memory and concentration
- Changes in personality and behavior
- Motor problems and poor coordination
- Speech and language difficulties
In conclusion, dementia encompasses a wide variety of disorders that share the common characteristic of loss of cognition. Knowing the different types of dementia and their distinctive symptoms is essential for early diagnosis and proper management of the disease. If you suspect that you or a loved one may be experiencing symptoms of dementia, it is important to seek specialized medical help to obtain an accurate diagnosis and establish an appropriate treatment plan.