What does it mean if I have a diagnosis of Lewy Body Dementia?

Lewy body dementia (LBD) is a progressive brain disorder characterized by the presence of abnormal protein deposits, known as Lewy bodies, in the brain. These deposits disrupt the normal functioning of brain cells, leading to cognitive decline and a range of symptoms that may include:

1. Fluctuating cognitive abilities: People with LBD often experience variations in their cognitive function, with periods of clarity followed by confusion or disorientation.
2. Visual hallucinations: Many individuals with LBD experience vivid and often recurrent hallucinations, typically of people or animals.
3. Parkinsonism: LBD can cause symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease, such as slowed movement, stiffness, tremors, and impaired balance.
4. REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD): This disorder causes people to physically act out their dreams while asleep, often violently.
5. Autonomic nervous system dysfunction: LBD can affect functions controlled by the autonomic nervous system, such as blood pressure regulation, digestion, and bladder control.
6. Fluctuations in alertness: People with LBD may experience sudden changes in alertness and attention, sometimes referred to as "sleep attacks" or "zoning out."
7. Memory and cognitive impairment: Memory loss and other cognitive impairments are common in LBD, though they may not be as prominent as in Alzheimer's disease.

Diagnosis of LBD can be challenging due to the overlap of symptoms with other neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. It often requires a comprehensive evaluation by a specialist, including a thorough medical history, physical examination, neurological assessments, and sometimes imaging studies (such as MRI or CT scans) and laboratory tests to rule out other possible causes.
While there is currently no cure for LBD, treatment focuses on managing symptoms to improve quality of life. This may involve medications to alleviate cognitive, motor, and psychiatric symptoms, as well as supportive therapies such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. It's also important for individuals with LBD and their caregivers to receive education and support to cope with the challenges associated with the condition.

CONTACT: 
Robin Coats, Owner
Tucson Senior Placement for additional information. 
520.373.0349  www.TucsonSeniorPlacement.com
​​