Understanding Dementia in Central California

The loss of brain function, such as thinking and memory, is known as dementia. This neurological condition refers to a group of symptoms caused by several different disorders of the brain. The most common types of dementia are vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. 

Neurologists at Dignity Health Central California use the latest testing methods and equipment to evaluate signs of dementia and provide personalized treatment. For more information about our care with humankindness for dementia in Central California, Find a Doctor today.

What Causes Dementia?

For a long time, it was thought that aging was the primary cause of dementia. However, that is not the case. The causes of dementia depend on the type of disease that is present. These include:

• Vascular dementia is caused by a decrease in blood flow to the brain. Poor circulation is the primary cause of this disorder, and is often the result of plaque buildup in the arteries and blood clots. Risk factors for this disease include smoking, high blood pressure, and coronary artery disease.
• Lewy body dementia is caused by the formation of a brain protein into an abnormal structure, called a Lewy body. These clumps of abnormal proteins damage parts of the brain and reduce the amount of dopamine the brain produces. Risk factors include family history of Lewy body dementia and Parkinson’s disease.
• Alzheimer’s disease develops when tau protein and other structures build up in the brain. This disrupts normal brain signals which are needed for communication within the body.

Dementia Stages

The signs and symptoms of dementia depend on the stage and type of the disease. In the beginning, symptoms are often mild, but as the disease progresses, they can become more severe. Generally, symptoms include varying levels of memory loss, difficulty with reasoning and logic, and trouble with problem solving. In the advanced stages of dementia, a person may lose the ability to perform normal, everyday functions and activities.

If you or a loved one are unsure about these symptoms, doctors offer compassionate care at these hospitals:

• Memorial Hospital
• Mercy Hospitals
• St. Joseph's Medical Center

Dementia Treatment & Prevention at Dignity Health Central California

While there’s no cure for dementia, a wide range of therapies and treatments exist, which can help manage the symptoms and preserve brain functions. These often include medications and at-home support and assistance. Talk with a Dignity Health Central California doctor about ways to prevent dementia, such as exercising, eating a healthy diet, and keeping your brain active.