Lewy Body Dementia is also known as LBD. It is a degenerative disease that involves all the cognitive, movement, and behavioral functions of the brain. It occurs from abnormal protein residues known as Lewy bodies in the brain, which interfere with the brain’s normal functioning. These deposits cause numerous cognitive and motor symptoms. LBD is the second most common form of advanced dementia after Alzheimer’s disease. It often overlaps with other types of dementia.
In this blog, we will reveal the causes, symptoms, and treatments for Lewy body dementia.
Causes of Lewy Body Dementia
The primary reasons for the occurrence of Lewy body dementia are genetic, environmental & biological reasons. Here is a brief take on all the prominent causes:
- Abnormal Protein Deposits
LBD features abnormal clumps of proteins called alpha-synuclein, which are known as Lewy bodies. This accumulation interferes with the brain’s usual functioning and affects memory, movement, and emotion control.
- Genetic Factors
Genetic alterations are also seen, which raises the likelihood, even though the majority of instances are random and unrelated to any family history.
- Neurological Diseases
LBD often occurs with other neurological diseases, including Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. For many patients diagnosed with LBD, symptoms of Parkinson’s disease have appeared prior to diagnosis for both diseases.
Symptoms of Lewy Body Dementia
People vary in their symptoms, which are usually classified under three categories:
- Cognitive
- Motor
- Behavioral.
Cognitive Symptoms
Cognitive changes in LBD seem to be quite similar to Alzheimer’s disease, but on other occasions, they may present differently. The commonest cognitive symptoms include:
- Fluctuation in Attention and Alertness: Patients with LBD can sometimes show extreme fluctuations in their level of consciousness, attention, and alertness. These fluctuations may change from day to day or even from time to time during a particular day.
- Visual Hallucinations: Major symptoms include intense visual hallucinations- seeing things that don’t exist. Occasionally, they may cause great distress, agitation, or even confusion.
- Memory impairment: is a common feature, though often not as extreme as in Alzheimer’s. It may take the form of short memory loss or an inability to remember new information for many years.
Motor symptoms
The motor symptoms of LBD are very close to that observed in Parkinson’s disease. A few of the symptoms that are sometimes noted include the following:
- Bradykinesia: Slowness of movement that makes normal, simple everyday chores a task to undertake
- Tremors: Some have limb or facial tremors, though it is not found in everyone who is suffering from LBD.
- Rigidity: The person suffers from stiffening of the muscles, which can also be extreme enough to alter one’s posture.
- Postural Instability: Problems with balance can also increase the risk of falls; thus, caregivers’ and family’s support is valued.
Behavioral Symptoms
Behavioral disturbances are also typical for LBD and include:
- Depression and Anxiety: Most patients suffering from Lewy body dementia have mood disorders, which are composed of depression and anxiety and worsen the cognitive and motor symptoms.
- Sleep Disorders: A person may start developing REM sleep behavior disorder, which can cause him to act out his dreams physically, which may be dangerous for him.
- Social Alterations: Some may isolate themselves from social activities and lose interest in previously enjoyed hobbies.
Treatments to Cope With Lewy Body Dementia
According to recent studies, Lewy body dementia is uncurable, but it can be successfully managed with a multifaceted strategy that combines supportive therapy, lifestyle changes, and medication.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle can also considerably influence the outcome of LBD. Among these are the following lifestyle modifications:
- Balanced Diet: A balanced diet including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats may help to contribute to brain health along with the rest of the body.
- Maintenance Exercise: This is helpful and promotes individual movement, balance, and health. Ideal exercises are gentle or simple ones, such as walking, tai chi & yoga.
- Cognitive Stimulation: Cognitive stimulation through mentally stimulating activities like puzzles, reading, or social interactions will help keep cognitive functions intact.
Medications
- Acetylcholine: A neurotransmitter involved in memory and learning that is activated by antipsychotic drugs. Minimal dosage could be used because certain patient groups are more prone to respond to antipsychotic drugs.
- Cholinesterase Inhibitors: Donepezil (Aricept) and rivastigmine (Exelon) are the most commonly used drugs that have helped improve cognition and manage behavioral symptoms.
Therapeutic Support
- Physical and Occupational Therapy: Physical and occupational therapies can help LBD patients maintain their physical ability, stay independent, and adapt to loss of mobility.
- Speech Therapy: If one has a problem communicating, they may seek speech therapy to regain the power of proper speech and swallowing.
- Support Groups: Sharing one’s problems with others brings hope and a wide range of resources that help and encourage patients and caregivers about Lewy Body Dementia.
Conclusion
The Lewy body dementia is multifaceted and poses multiple challenges for both individuals diagnosed and their families. While there is no cure, knowing what causes the disease, noticing the symptoms, and availing oneself of the appropriate treatments can manage the disease and enhance the quality of life.
Early diagnosis with a comprehensive care approach ensures that all care and support are optimized. If you or your loved one presents with Lewy Body Dementia symptoms, it is crucial to see a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and individualized treatment.
