The symptoms of dementia

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 Family Physician, discusses the symptoms of Dementia.

 Family Physician, discusses the symptoms of Dementia.

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Video transcript

Featuring Dr. Duncan Miller, BSc, MD

Video Title: What Are The Symptoms and Conditions of Dementia Duration: 1 minute, 26 seconds

Dementia is not a specific disease, rather, a cluster of conditions that are really typified by a decrease in brain function. Just like there's kidney failure and heart failure, dementia really can be thought of as brain failure.

Typically, it presents as a loss of brain function, but in practical words, it really presents as a concern about your memory or a loved one's memory, and also, a loss of function, or maybe a problem with language, or their ability to do complex tasks.

It can have a number of causes, some of which are reversible. So, it's important to seek medical attention if you have concerns about somebody – either yourself or a loved one – having dementia.

One of the things that your primary healthcare provider will do is rule out reversible problems, like, for example, problems with your thyroid, deficiency in Vitamin B12 – but it can also have metabolic problems. If your calcium levels or other functions in your body aren't working properly, it does affect your memory and your brain's functioning.

Just remember that treatment for your condition will vary with the individual and the condition they may have. So, always consult your primary healthcare provider for more information.

Presenter: Dr. Duncan Miller, Family Doctor, Vancouver, BC

Local Practitioners: Family Doctor

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97-100 People got two or more of these video questions wrong... ( 16 participated.)

Do You Understand Parkinson's Disease?

Questions
 
True
False
1

Parkinson's typically affects patients over the age of 60.

Explanation:

Parkinson's typically affects patients over the age of 60, although it can affect younger patients.

2

Parkinson’s disease symptoms always start suddenly.

Explanation:

Parkinson’s disease symptoms often start slowly, beginning with a barely noticeable tremor in one hand or a lack of expression on your face.

3

Stooped posture is a symptom of Parkinson's disease.

Explanation:

Over time, people with Parkinson’s disease may experience symptoms such as more severe tremors, stiffness, slurred speech, stooped posture, slowed movement, changes in writing and muscle rigidity.

4

There are specific diagnostic tests that will confirm the diagnosis.

Explanation:

Over time, people with Parkinson’s disease may experience symptoms such as more severe tremors, stiffness, slurred speech, stooped posture, slowed movement, changes in writing and muscle rigidity.

5

There are specific diagnostic tests that will confirm the diagnosis.

Explanation:

The diagnosis of Parkinson's disease is usually made by a neurologist, based on a history and physical examination. There are no specific diagnostic tests that will confirm the diagnosis. When an individual presents with characteristic findings and features of the disease and responds to dopaminergic medication or replacement of dopamine, it's usually enough to confirm the diagnosis.

6

Parkinson’s disease medications that increase or substitute for dopamine can help patients manage tremors and movement problems.

Explanation:

Parkinson’s disease medications that increase or substitute for dopamine can help patients manage tremors and movement problems. Dopamine agonists are drugs that mimic dopamine and act on dopamine receptors to facilitate movement and reduce symptoms.

This content is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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