Early Onset Dementia
Dementia isn't a specific disease. It refers to a group of symptoms caused by brain disorders. Memory loss is a common symptom of dementia, but it isn't the only symptom. Other symptoms include losing the ability to solve problems, control your emotions or successfully communicate verbally. Early onset dementia usually refers to someone who develops dementia before the age of 65.
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The Facts
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Changes in the brain can be caused by disease or trauma and can result in loss of cognitive functioning. Cognitive functions that can be affected by dementia include memory, thinking, reasoning, decision making and verbal communication. Dementia sometimes results in behavioral changes or personality changes.
Types
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Dementia can develop gradually or suddenly. The two main types of dementia are reversible and irreversible. Reversible dementia can sometimes be partly or fully cured. The ability to cure this type of dementia usually depends on identifying the underlying cause. Some causes of reversible dementia include drug abuse, alcoholism and minor head injuries. Irreversible dementia is more common and is caused by a progressive condition such as Alzheimer's disease. Early-onset dementia is usually caused by other autoimmune disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, lupus or HIV infection.
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Causes
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Dementia is caused by destruction of brain cells. Early onset dementia is usually caused by untreated diseases or substance abuse. Conditions that may lead to dementia include brain tumors, head injuries or stroke. Dementia is sometimes also caused by vitamin deficiencies, diabetes, kidney failure or liver disease.
Early-onset Alzheimer's Disease
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Alzheimer's disease is a common cause of dementia in people over 65. However, early-onset forms of the disease are sometimes seen in people as young as 30. This disease causes a gradual decline in cognitive abilities over the course of several years. Memory, language, behavior and abstract thinking are all affected. According to the Mayo Clinic, a large proportion of early-onset Alzheimer's disease is linked to three genes.
Prevention/Solution
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Many forms of dementia are related to genetics, and these can't be prevented. However, certain factors may be able to prevent or delay the onset of dementia. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, diabetics who keep tight control over blood glucose levels tend to score better on cognitive function tests. Engaging in intellectually stimulating activities such as crossword puzzles or chess helps lower the chances of developing dementia.
Treatment
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Treatment may not be an option in all forms of dementia, but some forms respond to medication. Medications are usually prescribed to slow the progression of dementia and delay admission to a nursing home. Some patients respond to cognitive training, such as memory exercises. For patients whose dementia includes behavior problems, treatment with behavior modification may result in some improvement.
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