As time goes on, it’s common to experience changes in memory and thinking, which is known as Cognitive Decline.

One stage that may arise is Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), where memory issues are noticeable but not significantly disruptive to daily life.

Over time, these symptoms may progress and interfere with daily tasks, possibly leading to Alzheimer’s Disease.

Alzheimer’s Disease affects memory, thinking, and behavior, and is the most common form of Dementia.

The majority of people who suffer with Alzheimer’s are 65 and older.

The second most common form of Dementia, is Lewy Body Dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia (LBD) have several similarities; however, there are also some clear differences between the two diseases according to verywell.com.

What is Lewy Body Dementia?

“LBD is an umbrella term for two related diagnoses. LBD refers to both Parkinson’s disease dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies. The earliest symptoms of these two diseases differ, but reflect the same underlying biological changes in the brain. Over time, people with both diagnoses will develop very similar cognitive, physical, sleep, and behavioral symptoms” according to the Lewy Body Dementia Association,

The most common symptoms of LBD can include trouble processing information, or issues with alertness, difficulty walking, hallucinations, blood pressure control, bowel and bladder function, sleep disorders, and depression.

The Mayo Clinic states that “Lewy body dementia is characterized by the abnormal buildup of proteins into masses known as Lewy bodies. This protein is also associated with Parkinson’s disease. People who have Lewy bodies in their brains also have the plaques and tangles associated with Alzheimer’s disease.“

The Bright Focus foundation says that “The microscopic findings in brain tissue from LBD patients are different from those in people with AD. The important distinction is that in LBD there are small “Lewy bodies” inside the brain’s cells. These Lewy bodies are neither plaques nor tangles, but rather synuclein, the same protein found in brains of people with Parkinson’s disease.”

Check out the video below:

To start the process of determining if you have LBD, ask your doctor to do a physical exam and to look at your medical history.

Your doctor may suggest a CT or MRI scan of your brain. These types of tests measure memory, and blood tests run to check the vitamins and hormones in your body.

If it’s determined that you are diagnosed with LBD, there are “medications” that your doctor might prescribe. These medications help with thinking, movement and sleeping problems.

Below is a video about Robin Williams who was secretly battling depression, anxiety and paranoia. He suffered from LBD and took his own life.

If you think you may be suffering with symptoms of Lewy Body Dementia, please immediately consult your physician.

Do you suffer from LBD or do you know someone? Please leave a comment!

TOPIC: What Is Lewy Body Dementia?

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