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What is Lewy body dementia?
Lewy body disease is a progressive disease which is associated with accumulation of abnormal clusters of proteins called “Lewy bodies” in the brain. Symptoms of Lewy body dementia include fluctuations of concentration or alertness which may occur over the course of the day, by the hour or even a few minutes. Visual hallucinations, motor symptoms such as rigidity and instability, and sleep disturbance are common in Lewy body dementia, which differentiate it from other dementia subtypes.
Cause
Abnormal clusters of proteins, called “Lewy bodies,” are observed in the neurons of the brain. Widespread distribution of Lewy bodies in the cerebrum results in the development of dementia.
Main Symptoms
- Recurring visual hallucinations
See things that are not there (these can be pleasant or upsetting)
- Experience sleep disturbance
Known as Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep disorder, in which people are restless and can experience intense dreams/nightmares
- Experience sudden changes and fluctuations in alertness
People may stare blankly into space for periods of time, seem drowsy and lethargic and spend a lot of time sleeping
- Parkinsonian symptoms
Slowed movement, difficulty walking, shuffling or appear rigid, tremors – usually in the hands whilst at rest
- Instability in gait and balance which makes a person prone to falls
Facts about dementia with Lewy body
What are the currently available treatments for dementia with Lewy body?
Unfortunately, there are no drugs available at present that can completely cure dementia with Lewy body disease or stop its progression. However, therapeutic agents for Alzheimer’s disease have been shown to be effective against decline or fluctuations in cognitive function or visual hallucinations in some cases. Therapeutic agents for Parkinson’s disease are used to control parkinsonian symptoms.
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