Early Stage Dementia

Dementia is a chronic, progressive deterioration of mental function typified by loss of memory. There are both reversible and irreversible forms of dementia. The beginning of all forms is called early-stage dementia.

Symptoms

• The earliest symptoms of dementia may be subtle and noticed only by family members. Individuals with early-stage dementia may misplace or forget how to use items. They may repeat sentences or forget common words so that their sentences may not make any sense. Simple tasks become difficult for them. They may get lost easily, have rapid mood swings, and forget the names of family members. They may show poor judgment, such as wearing a coat on a hot day.

Significance

• Early diagnosis is important, as some dementias can be reversed. For irreversible forms, earlier treatments may be more effective.

Reversible

• Some of the reversible dementias are those caused by hypothyroidism, drugs, certain nutritional deficiencies, and tumors.

Irreversible

• Dementias caused by Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease are irreversible, as are senile and atherosclerotic dementias.

Treatment

• For reversible dementias, the underlying cause is treated. Irreversible dementia may be treated with cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine.