If you or someone you love is having trouble with their memory, they may be in the early stages of dementia. Under the direction of William Shankle, MS, MD, FACP, the neurologists at Shankle Clinic evaluate, diagnose, and treat a variety of dementia disorders. They also differentiate true dementia from dementia-like conditions that can be reversed with lifestyle changes and therapy. To get a cognitive evaluation and receive the treatment you need, book an appointment at Shankle Clinic, located within the Hoag Neurosciences Institute in Newport Beach, California. You can schedule your appointment online or over the phone.
Dementia refers to a decline in cognitive abilities that can be caused by a variety of diseases and conditions. Dementia isn’t a disease itself, however, it is a general term that covers abnormal changes in the brain.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is marked by plaques and tangles in the brain, and it accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases.
Other conditions that cause dementia are:
You may also develop dementia if you have a medical condition that affects your brain, including Parkinson’s disease and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Some infections and other medical problems cause reversible types of dementia that resolve with therapy.
Age-related memory changes aren’t the same thing as dementia. However, you or a loved one may have dementia if you:
If you notice that someone is having trouble with memory or behavior that seems to get worse, don’t delay an evaluation. Diagnosing and treating dementia in its early stages can help slow progression. If the type of dementia is reversible, quick treatment may restore normal cognitive function.
Even progressive dementia conditions that aren’t reversible, such as AD, may be slowed or prevented by adopting a healthier lifestyle. In fact, research shows that the risk of all-cause dementia is 32% lower, even in people with a high genetic risk, when they adopt healthy habits.
Some recommendations include:
Treating sleep apnea, controlling diabetes, and improving cardiovascular health also reduces your risk.
The neurologists at Shankle Clinic tailor treatment based on the type and stage of dementia. Some reversible types of dementia may respond to lifestyle changes, such as nutritional supplements.
Nonreversible dementias, including AD, respond to medications as well as behavioral therapies. To set up a dementia evaluation, contact Shankle Clinic today by phone or online form.
