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What is Dementia?

physician-Maushmi
Medically reviewed by Maushmi Sheth
physician-Maushmi
Medically reviewed by Maushmi Sheth

Getting to Dementia meaning, in general, it affects memory, thinking, and social abilities severely enough to interfere with your daily life. It isn’t a specific disease, but several conditions may cause dementia. 

Abnormal brain changes lead to disorders sorted under the general term “dementia.” These changes provoke a decline in thinking skills, also known as cognitive abilities, severe enough to impair daily life and independent function. They also affect behavior, emotional condition, and relationships.

Dementia is not a disorder of consciousness, and consciousness is not usually affected. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of Dementia. Though dementia primarily strikes people in older ages, it is not a part of normal aging.

Diagnosis of Dementia 

Diagnosis of Dementia and its type can be challenging. Nothing like damaged nerves and loss of its cells and their connections to the brain leads to Dementia. Some diseases look like dementias, such as those caused by a reaction to medications or vitamin deficiencies, and they might improve with treatment. The doctor must recognize the pattern of the loss of skills to diagnose Dementia causes and function and determine what a person can still do. 

Dementia causes that may be reversible include:

  • Alcohol or drug abuse
  • Tumors
  • Subdural hematomas, blood clots beneath the outer covering of the brain
  • Normal-pressure hydrocephalus, a buildup of fluid in the brain
  • Metabolic disorders such as a vitamin B12 deficiency
  • Low levels of thyroid hormones, called hypothyroidism
  • Low blood sugar, called hypoglycemia
  • HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND)

Seven stages of dementia

Seven stages of dementia

  1. No impairment. Every phase of Dementia is individual, and in some cases, it can run without any symptoms, but tests may reveal a problem. There are no signs or symptoms, no memory loss, behavioral issues, or anything else associated with the onset of dementia.
  1. Very mild decline. In the second stage, known as a very mild cognitive decline, slight changes in behavior are possible. There is normal forgetfulness that is often attributed to typical signs of aging. During the second phase, patients may start to forget, for example, everyday phrases or names, specific dates or slower recall of a name or word,  but symptoms of Dementia are still not appearing. In this early stage, while taking care of a patient with Dementia, it is essential to find a balance between independence and assistance.
  1. Mild decline. Patients thinking and reasoning is changed when the mild deterioration set in. People who have Dementia may have problems making plans, repeating their sentences. Patients experience increased forgetfulness, decreased performance at work, speech difficulty, and difficulty focusing on everyday tasks. Stage 3 is where Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease symptoms can become more noticeable to friends and family. This stage will not have a major impact on your loved one’s everyday life. Still, signs can include trouble with complex tasks and problem-solving, memory loss and forgetfulness, poor concentration and disorganization, struggles with driving or getting lost.
  1. Moderate decline. Stage 4 is commonly defined as early Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Symptoms of cognitive decline are apparent, and a patient should be consulting with a specialist. Troubles with making plans, moodiness, and keeping in mind recent events become harder. People in this stage will have problems concentrating, memory and operating finances, and traveling alone to new locations. In general, the fourth stage is characterized by troubles with routine tasks and difficulties in social life.
  1. Moderately severe decline. This phase comes to the condition when patients may forget their phone numbers or their grandchildren’s names. Stage five is when your loved one is likely to need help with routine tasks, like dressing or bathing. In general, this phase can be described by memory loss of personal details and current events, reduced mental acuity and problem-solving ability, and pronounced confusion. At this point, they’ll need assistance with some essential day-to-day functions, such as picking out clothes to wear. Lasting an average of 4 years, a person in mid-stage Dementia now needs help to complete activities of daily living. 
  1. Severe decline. In the sixth phase, patients with Dementia begin to forget the name of their closest people and need help going to the bathroom and eating. Personality and emotional condition also undergo changes. In stage 6 of dementia, a person may have troubles with sleeping, recognizing even family members. Communication is severely disabled, and delusions, paranoia, compulsions, anxiety, and agitation may occur.
  1. Very severe decline. During the last stage, persons being treated for Dementia can no longer speak their thoughts. They can’t care for themselves, may experience severe motor and communication impairment, and may lose the ability to speak or walk. During this stage, caregivers should pay attention to providing comfort and quality of life. Care options may exceed what you feel you can provide at home since around-the-clock care will be needed.

How to prevent Dementia?

  • Be physically and socially active. Doing regular physical activity is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of dementia. It’s good for your heart, circulation, weight, and mental wellbeing. It’s essential to find a way of exercising that works for you. You should also build some resistance activities that require strength and work your muscles twice a week, such as digging in the garden or exercises, such as push-ups and sit-ups. Alternatively, take part in aerobic and resistance activities, such as football, running, netball, or circuit training.
  • Quit smoking. If you smoke, you’re putting yourself at a much higher risk of developing dementia. You’re also increasing your risk of other diseases, including type 2 diabetes, stroke, and lung and other cancers. 
  • Drink less alcohol. Stop drinking too much alcohol or give up it at all, as it increases your risk of developing Dementia
  • Eat healthy food enriched with vitamins. Proper nutrition will be a solution anyway, despite your health condition. Eat protein (such as oily fish, beans, pulses, eggs, or meat) to keep your strength up at least twice a week. Limit your sugar intake, look out for hidden salt, eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day. Don’t forget to drink 6–8 glasses of fluid (such as water, lower-fat milk, and sugar-free drinks) a day, which is especially essential for patients suffered from Dementia, as some medications and dementia-related illnesses can also make dehydration worse.

Sleep well. When sleep is restricted to less than seven hours, the brain has less time to clear beta-amyloid away, leading to toxic accumulation levels and raising the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. That is why you should establish a proper sleep schedule to provide enough time to rest your organism.

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Lone Star Neurology
4.5
Based on 905 reviews
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Edward Medina
Edward Medina
15:34 30 Jun 22
Just such an amazing staff that makes you feel like part of their family. I’ve been going there for over 5 years now... and each visit I get the very best care and treatments that I have ever received in the 20+ years that I’ve been dealing with severe debilitating migraines. Since i started seeing them the number of my migraines has dropped from 15-20 a month to 2-3 every 3 month. I highly recommend them …they will change your life!read more
Daneisha Johnson
Daneisha Johnson
22:20 19 May 22
Dr. Askari was very kind and explained everything so I could understand. The other staff were nice as well. I would... have gave 5 stars but I was a little taken aback when I checked in and had to pay 600.00 upfront. I think that should have been discussed in a appointment confirmation call or email just so I could have been prepared.read more
Jean Cooper
Jean Cooper
16:54 29 Apr 22
I love the office staff they are friendly and very helpful. Dr. JODIE is very caring and understanding to your needs... and wants to help you. I will go back. would recommend Dr. Dr. Jodie to other Patients in a heart beat. The team works well together.read more
Linda M
Linda M
19:40 02 Apr 22
I was obviously stressed, needing to see a neurologist. The staff was so patient and Dr. Ansari was so kind. At one... point he told me to relax, we have time, when I was relaying my history of my condition. That helped ease my stress. I have seen 3 other neurologists and he was the only one who performed any assessment tests on my cognitive and physical skills. At one point I couldn't complete two assessments and got upset and cried. I was told, it's OK. That's why you're here. I was truly impressed, and super pleased with the whole experience!read more
Leslie Durham
Leslie Durham
15:05 01 Apr 22
I've been coming here for about 5 years. The staff are ALWAYS friendly and knowledgeable. The Doctors are the absolute... best!! Jodie Moore is always in such a great mood which is a plus when you are already stressed. Highly recommendedread more
Monica Del Bosque
Monica Del Bosque
14:13 25 Mar 22
Since my first post my thoughts have changed here. It's unfortunate. My doctor and PA were great, but the office staff... is horrible. They never call you back when they say they will, they misinform you, they cause you too much stress wondering what's going on, they don't keep you posted. They never answer the phone. At this point I've left four messages in the last week, and I have sent three messages. Twice from their portal and one direct email. No response. My appointment is on Monday morning at 8:30am, no confirmation on my insurance and what's going on. What the heck is going on, this is ridiculous!I've given up... the stress her office staff has put me through is just not worth it. You can do so much better, please clean house, either change out your office staff, or find a way for them to be more efficient please. You have to do something. This is not how you want to run your practice. It leaves a very bad impression on your business.read more
Ron Buckholz
Ron Buckholz
23:32 23 Mar 22
I was actually pleasantly surprised with this visit! It took me a long time to get the appointment scheduled because no... one answers your phones EVER! After a month, I finally got in, and your staff was warm, friendly, and I was totally impressed! I feel like you will take care of my needs!read more
Steve Nabavi
Steve Nabavi
16:28 16 Mar 22
It was a nice visit. Happy staff doing all they can do to comfort the patients in a very calming environment. You ask... me they are earned a big gold star on the fridge. My only complaint they didn't give me any cookies.read more
Katie Lewis
Katie Lewis
16:10 10 Feb 22
Had very positive appointments with Jodie and Dr. Sheth for my migraine care. Jodie was so fast with the injections and... has so much valuable info. I started to feel light headed during checkout and the staff was SO helpful—giving me a chair, water, and taking me into a private room until I felt better. Highly recommend this practice for migraine patients, they know what they’re doing!!read more
Joshua Martinez
Joshua Martinez
16:02 10 Dec 21
I was scheduled to be checked and just want to say that the staff was fantastic. They were kind and helpful. I was... asked many questions related to what was going on and not once did I feel as though I was being brushed off. The front desk staff was especially great in assisting me. I'm scheduled to go back for a mri and am glad that I'll be going there.read more
Isabel Ivy
Isabel Ivy
21:42 03 Nov 21
I had such a good experience with Lone Star Neurology, Brent my MRI Tech was so awesome and made sure I was very... comfortable during the appointment. He gave me ear plugs, a pillow, leg support and blanket, easiest MRI ever lol 🤣 My 72 hour EEG nurse Amanda was also so awesome. She made sure I was take care of over the 3 days and took her time with the electrodes to make sure it was comfortable for me! Paige was also a huge help in answering all my questions when it came to my test results, and letting me know her honest opinions about how I should go forth with my treatment.read more
Leslie Luce
Leslie Luce
17:37 20 Oct 21
The professionalism and want to help attitude of this office was present from the moment I contacted them. The follow... up and follow through as well as their willingness to find a way to schedule my dad was above and beyond. We visited two offices in the same day with the same experience. I am appreciative of this—we spend a lot of time with doctors and this was top notch start to finish.read more
robert Parker
robert Parker
16:38 16 Apr 21
I love going to this office. The staff is friendly and helpful. The doctor is great. I am getting the best... neurological tests and treatment I have ever had. The only reason I did not give them a 5 star rating is because it is impossible to reach a live person at the office to reschedule appointments. Every time I have tried to get through to the office it says all people are busy and I am sent to a voicemail. If they could get their phone answering fixed, I would give them a strong 5 stars.read more
MaryAnn Hornbaker
MaryAnn Hornbaker
00:26 25 Feb 21
Dr. Harney is an excellent Dr. I found him friendly , personable and thorough. I evidently am an unusual case. ... Therefore he spent a Hugh amount of time educating me. He even gave me literature to further explain my condition and how to follow up. This is something you rarely get from your doctors. So I am more than please with my doctor and his staff.read more
Roger Arguello
Roger Arguello
03:05 29 Jan 21
Always courteous, professional. The staff is very friendly and always work with you to find the best appointment time.... The care team has been great. Always taking the time to listen to your concerns and to find the best treatment.read more
Margaret Rowland
Margaret Rowland
01:12 27 Jan 21
I have been a patient at Lone Star Neurology for several years. Now both my adult daughters also are patients there. I... love Jodie. She is always so prompt whether it is a teleamed call are a visit in the office. She takes the time to explain everything to me and answers all my questions. I am so blessed to have Jodie as my doctor.read more
Susan Miller
Susan Miller
03:01 13 Jan 21
My husband had an accident 5 years ago and Lone Star Neurology has been such a blessing to us with my husbands care.... Jodie Moore is his provider and she is amazing! Jodie is very knowledgeable, caring, and thorough. She takes her time with you, making sure your needs are met and she is happy to answer any questions you may have. Lone Star Neurology’s patients are very lucky to have Jodie providing their care. Thank you Lone Star Neurology and especially Jodie for everything you have done for us. Jodie, you are the best!read more
Windalyn C
Windalyn C
01:32 09 Jan 21
Jodie is wonderful. She is very caring and knowledgeable. I have been to over a dozen neurologists, and none were able... to help me as much as they have here. Thanks!read more
Katie Kordel
Katie Kordel
00:40 09 Jan 21
Jodi Moore, nurse practitioner, is amazing. I have suffered from frequent, debilitating headaches for almost 20 years.... She has provided the best proactive and responsive care I have ever received. My quality of life has been greatly improved by her caring approach and tenacity in finding solutions.read more
Ellie Natsis
Ellie Natsis
15:41 07 Jan 21
I have had the best experience at this neurologist's office! For over a year I have been receiving iv treatments here... each month and my nurse, Bobbie is beyond wonderful!! She's so attentive, knowledgeable, caring, and detail oriented. She makes an otherwise uncomfortable experience much more pleasant and definitely puts me at ease! She also helps me with my insurance,ordering this specialty medication and dealing with the ordering process which is no easy feat.Needless to say, she goes above a beyond in every way and I'm so grateful to this office and to Bobbie for all they do for me!read more
Matt Morris
Matt Morris
15:39 07 Jan 21
Let me start by saying that I have been coming here for years. Due to my autoimmune disease, I am in this office... once every three weeks for multiple hours at a time. The office is very clean and the staff very friendly. My only complaint would be there communication via phone. They aren't the best at responding if you leave a voicemail and expect a call back. I understand that this is prob just due to the sheer number of alls they receive daily. What I can say I like the best about the office are the people. Bobby who handles my infusions is great. I never have any issues with her setting up my infusions. She is very quick to reply to messages sent via text and if she were to leave then my whole opinion of the office may change. I also enjoy people like Matt, Lauren, and Jodi. I appreciate all that they do for me and without this team I'm not sure I would be as happy as I am to visit the office as frequently as I have to. Please ensure that these folks are recognized as they are what makes my visit to this office so tolerable :).read more
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