Mixed Dementia: When Alzheimer's is Not the Only Cause
Mixed Dementia: When Alzheimer's is Not the Only Cause
Deep Dive Podcast: Diagnosis of Mixed Dementia
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, but it is not the only cause. Other causes of dementia include cerebrovascular disease, frontotemporal degeneration (FTD), Lewy body disease, and hippocampal sclerosis (HS). When an individual has brain changes associated with more than one cause of dementia, they are said to have mixed dementia.
Prevalence of Mixed Dementia
Mixed dementia is very common. It is more common than having dementia due to a single cause. One study found that 82% of people with Alzheimer's dementia also had brain changes associated with at least one other cause of dementia.
Symptoms of Mixed Dementia
The symptoms of mixed dementia can vary depending on the individual and the specific causes of dementia that are present. However, some common symptoms include:
Memory loss
Language problems
Difficulty with problem-solving
Disorientation to time and place
Difficulty completing familiar tasks
Changes in mood and behavior
Diagnosis of Mixed Dementia
Diagnosing mixed dementia can be challenging because the symptoms of different causes of dementia can overlap. Doctors may use a variety of methods to diagnose mixed dementia, including:
Medical history
Physical examination
Cognitive tests
Brain imaging scans
Treatment of Mixed Dementia
There is no cure for mixed dementia, but treatments are available that can help manage the symptoms. These treatments may include:
Medications
Non-drug therapies
Support services
Living with Mixed Dementia
Living with mixed dementia can be challenging, but there are ways to maintain a good quality of life. These may include:
Staying active and engaged
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
Connecting with others
Seeking support services
The information provided in this blog article is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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