Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is the second most common type of progressive dementia after Alzheimer's disease. It occurs when abnormal spherical protein deposits, called Lewy bodies, develop inside brain cells. These Lewy bodies disrupt normal brain function by affecting dopamine and other neurotransmitter levels. The primary symptoms of LBD are changes in attention, thinking, movement, behavior and mood.
Causes And Risk Factors
The exact cause of Lewy Body Dementia formation is unknown, but aging is the biggest risk factor. Genetics and environment also play a role. Several genes associated with Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease increase the risk of developing Lewy bodies. Head injuries, exposure to pesticides or herbicides, and a family history of dementia also elevate risk. Men are slightly more likely to develop LBD than women.
Common Symptoms
Memory loss and impaired thinking are primary symptoms in the early stages of LBD. As the disease progresses, physical changes emerge as Lewy bodies spread throughout the brain. Common symptoms include:
Cognitive Changes
- Difficulty concentrating and paying attention
- Problems with visual and spatial abilities
- Behavioral changes like hallucinations and delusions
- Fluctuating levels of alertness and cognition
Movement Issues
- Tremors, slowed movements and stiff muscles
- Difficulty with balance and falls
- Restless leg syndrome or restless body syndrome
Other Symptoms
- Vivid dreams and nightmares
- Changes in alertness, attention and sleep patterns
- Depression, anxiety, apathy or compulsive behaviors
- Sensitivity to some medications
Diagnosis Challenges
Diagnosing LBD can be difficult because its symptoms are similar to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Doctors conduct physical exams, review medical history and evaluate behavior and thinking skills. Brain scans and spinal fluid tests may be done to rule out other dementias. The diagnosis usually requires microscopic examination of brain tissue after death. Diagnosis accuracy can be improved by tracking symptom fluctuations over time and their response to medications.
Disease Progression
The progression of symptoms in Lewy Body Dementia is usually gradual but fluctuating. In early stages, alertness and cognition may vary widely from day to day or within a single day. Physical symptoms tend to worsen over time as Lewy bodies affect movement, mobility and other brain functions. Later stages can cause profound cognitive and physical impairments requiring full-time care. The average survival time after diagnosis is 4-6 years but survival ranges from 1-15 years depending on individual factors.
Managing Symptoms
There is currently no cure for LBD, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms. Cholinesterase inhibitors are often prescribed to improve cognition and alertness, while Parkinson's medications help motor issues. Non-drug therapies like exercise and occupational therapy can temporarily alleviate symptoms. Care partners play an important role in ensuring safety, providing stimulation and regularly engaging the person to improve mood and behavior. Due to irregular symptom changes, customized care plans tailored to each individual are vital.
Importance Of Early Detection
Because Lewy Body Dementia symptoms mimic other diseases, it's especially important to receive an accurate diagnosis as early as possible. This allows timely treatment to alleviate distressing symptoms and allows individuals and families time to research the disease, plan future care and address legal or financial concerns. While LBD remains incurable, accurate diagnosis and comprehensive management can significantly improve quality of life during all stages of the disease. Further research continues into new treatment options and one day, a cure.
Get more insights on this topic: https://www.newsanalyticspro.com/understanding-lewy-body-dementia-an-overview-of-symptoms-causes-and-treatment/
About Author:
Priya Pandey is a dynamic and passionate editor with over three years of expertise in content editing and proofreading. Holding a bachelor's degree in biotechnology, Priya has a knack for making the content engaging. Her diverse portfolio includes editing documents across different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. Priya's meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence make her an invaluable asset in the world of content creation and refinement. (LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/priya-pandey-8417a8173/)
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it