Frontotemporal Dementia affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. It is the most common type of dementia diagnosed before the age of 65.
Symptoms: This form of dementia may affect an individual's ability to express themselves and understand others. It can interfere with executive functioning such as reasoning and decision making. It can lead to inappropriate behaviors including gambling and spending, mimicking a midlife crisis. Sexually inappropriate behavior may also be displayed. Memory loss is not usually noted in the beginning stages.
Risk Factors: Risk factors include family history and gene mutations. It appears to affect both men and women equally. Traumatic brain injuries, smoking, cardiovascular health, and sedentary lifestyle habits may play a role.
Diagnosing: Assessments used for diagnosing other forms of dementia such as cognitive tests and medical histories will be used in helping diagnose frontotemporal dementia. However, CT Scans and MRIs can be used to detect atrophy, or shrinking, of the frontal and temporal lobes. A PET scan can also be used to examine blood flow to those areas of the brain.
Check back next week to learn about Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease!
If you or someone you know is struggling with or suspected to have dementia, please reach out. You can click the "Request an Appointment" button or call (504) 356-1469.
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