Know the Different Types of Dementia

There are different types of dementia from Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) to Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and beyond. Memory and cognitive neurologist Dr. Anjali Patel discussed the differences at “A Day to Remember: A Conference for Those Living with Memory Loss,” held at Overlook Medical Center on Saturday, March 9.

Often friends and family worry that a loved one who is forgetting words or losing their car keys is in the beginning stages of dementia – it could be normal aging.

Many people experience MCI, changes in memory and thinking that hasn't made a huge impact on their daily life and function. According to Dr. Patel, about 12 to 15 percent of people with MCI will develop AD or another form of dementia; some people stay the same and others get better.

The most common form of dementia is AD, but more exist: Lewy Body; Vascular; Frontotemporal; Parkinson's disease; Huntington’s disease; chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE); and some secondary dementias that occur because of disorders that damage the brain. Some conditions that look like dementia develop from nutritional deficiencies, hormone dysfunction, side effects of medications or chronic infections, and can be reversed.

A cognitive neurologist can diagnose most memory problems by giving a complete physical, with blood work, cognitive tests and, if necessary, ordering an MRI of the brain or CT scan of the head. With an accurate diagnosis, the disease can be managed with proper treatment.

There are different types of interventions that will help manage the disease and possibly prevent secondary dementias. A cognitive neurologist can help identify the best treatment for each individual.

Dr. Patel has offices in Summit and West Orange.