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Learn About Medical Conditions
Dementia
Dementia is a word for a group of symptoms caused by disorders that affect the brain. It is not a specific disease. People with dementia may not be able to think well enough to do normal activities, such as getting dressed or eating. They may lose their ability to solve problems or control their emotions. Their personalities may change. They may become agitated or see things that are not there.
Memory loss is a common symptom of dementia. However, memory loss by itself does not mean you have dementia. People with dementia have serious problems with two or more brain functions, such as memory and language.
What treatments are available?
Many different diseases can cause dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease and stroke. Drugs are available to treat some of these diseases. While these drugs cannot cure dementia or repair brain damage, they may improve symptoms or slow down the disease.
For families caring for someone with a chronic progressive disease, caregiver services help teach skills for at-home care and can provide respite so caregivers can work, run errands or have a break from caregiving responsibilities.
See also: Stroke, Alzheimer's Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of HealthLearn more: MayoClinic.com