Dementia

Dementia is an acquired, progressive decline in memory, executive function, language, and/or behavior severe enough to interfere with daily function. Common causes: Alzheimer disease (most common), vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, Lewy-body dementia, and reversible causes (hypothyroidism, B12 deficiency, depression, hydrocephalus). Treatment: identify reversible causes; cholinesterase inhibitors/memantine for Alzheimer; manage behavior; caregiver support; safety planning.

Common Symptoms

Memory loss; disorientation; impaired executive function; language difficulty; behavior/personality change; functional decline

Causes and Pathogenesis

Neurodegenerative protein deposition (amyloid/tau/alpha-synuclein) or vascular injury progressively destroys cognitive circuits; some causes are reversible.

Treatment

Identify/treat reversible causes; cholinesterase inhibitors/memantine; manage behavioral symptoms; caregiver support; safety planning

Preventive Measures

Control vascular risk; cognitive/social activity; treat depression/B12/thyroid; early diagnosis.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Neurology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.