Dementia Specialist
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Loudoun Neurology Associates
Parminder Chawla, MD
Neurologist located in Lansdowne, VA
Although memory loss is often associated with normal aging, getting old doesn't cause dementia: it’s usually the result of an underlying condition. At Loudoun Neurology Associates in Lansdowne, Leesburg, Virginia, you can find, Parminder Chawla, MD, looks for the cause of dementia and develops a treatment program to address its symptoms. If you’re located in or near Leesburg, Virginia, and concerned about memory loss or confusion in a family member, contact the office today. Call to schedule an initial consultation or book online.
Dementia Q & A
What is dementia?
Dementia is a general term that describes a decline in mental ability severe enough that it impacts the individual’s daily living. Dementia is not a disease, but a symptom that can be a result of multiple conditions, including Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia, which results from a stroke.
What are the signs of dementia?
Dementia has a range of symptoms, and people experience them in different ways. To be considered dementia, there must be impairments in at least two types of mental functioning, such as:
- Memory
- Communication
- Language
- Focus
- Attention
- Reasoning
- Judgement
In many cases, dementia symptoms manifest in short-term memory problems, like misplacing keys, not paying bills, or getting lost driving. These symptoms are typically progressive and get worse over time.
What causes dementia?
Damage to brain cells often results in dementia. Because these cells aren’t functioning correctly, cell communication degrades, affecting how a person thinks, communicates, and behaves. The location of these damaged cells often determines the type of condition and its symptoms.
In many dementia cases, the cellular damage is permanent and tends to worsen with time. There are circumstances where dementia may not endure. Once Dr. Chawla addresses the issue impacting your memory, your dementia disappears. He can accomplish that with:
- Certain medications
- Depression
- Alcohol abuse
- Thyroid issues
- Vitamin deficiencies
How do you treat dementia?
If dementia is caused by degenerative damage to brain cells, like in the case of Alzheimer’s disease, there is no cure, but Dr. Chawla evaluates the memory problems and develops a treatment plan to address the symptoms.
Treatment may include medications to treat the cognitive symptoms of dementia. While these medicines can stabilize symptoms, they don’t stop or slow the condition’s progression.
Dr. Chawla may also suggest non-pharmaceutical options for behavioral issues. These include, for example, monitoring for comfort, reducing stimulation, and creating a calm and routine environment.
If someone you love is starting to show the signs and symptoms of dementia, don’t wait to find help. Call Dr. Chawla’s office today to schedule an appointment or book it online.
