dementia/Symptoms of dementia Dementia is not a disease itself. It's a collection of symptoms that result from damage to the brain caused by different diseases, such as Alzheimer's. These symptoms vary according to the part of the brain that is damaged. Common early symptoms of dementia Different types of dementia can affect people differently, and everyone will experience symptoms in their own way. However, there are some common early symptoms that may appear some time before a diagnosis of dementia. These include:
These symptoms are often mild and may get worse only very gradually. It's often termed "mild cognitive impairment" (MCI) as the symptoms are not severe enough to be diagnosed as dementia. You might not notice these symptoms if you have them, and family and friends may not notice or take them seriously for some time. In some people, these symptoms will remain the same and not worsen. But some people with MCI will go on to develop dementia. Dementia is not a natural part of ageing. This is why it's important to talk to a GP sooner rather than later if you're worried about memory problems or other symptoms. Symptoms specific to Alzheimer's disease The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer's disease. Common symptoms of Alzheimer's disease include:
Read more about Alzheimer's disease. Symptoms specific to vascular dementia Vascular dementia is the second most common cause of dementia, after Alzheimer's. Some people have both vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease, often called "mixed dementia". Symptoms of vascular dementia are similar to Alzheimer's disease, although memory loss may not be as obvious in the early stages. Symptoms can sometimes develop suddenly and quickly get worse, but they can also develop gradually over many months or years. Specific symptoms can include:
Read more about vascular dementia. Symptoms specific to dementia with Lewy bodies Dementia with Lewy bodies has many of the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, and people with the condition typically also experience:
Read more about dementia with Lewy bodies. Symptoms specific to frontotemporal dementia Although Alzheimer's disease is still the most common type of dementia in people under 65, a higher percentage of people in this age group may develop frontotemporal dementia than older people. Most cases are diagnosed in people aged 45-65. Early symptoms of frontotemporal dementia may include:
Read more about frontotemporal dementia. Symptoms in the later stages of dementia As dementia progresses, memory loss and difficulties with communication often become severe. In the later stages, the person is likely to neglect their own health, and require constant care and attention. The most common symptoms of advanced dementia include:
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