Dementia is a condition that is characterized by a group of symptoms which are associated with a decline in presence of mind and memory. There are several symptoms that help identify the occurrence of the condition. Here is how you can diagnose yourself of the condition, and seek treatment for dementia.

Diagnosis of dementia
The diagnosis of dementia is a challenging task. The reason being, for dementia to be diagnosed, at least two core mental functions have to impair at a stage where it interferes with daily life. The mental functions include language skills, the ability to reason and problem-solving, memory, visual perception and ability to pay attention and focus.

The doctor will review the patient’s symptoms and medical history and then conduct a series of physical examinations. The patient’s relatives and friends can also be called and asked for details. A single test alone cannot detect dementia or the type of dementia. Thus, a series of tests are conducted to find the problem.

Cognitive and neuropsychological tests
In this test, the patient’s cognitive (thinking) function is evaluated. Thinking skills like orientation, memory, reasoning, judgment, attention, and language skills are measured via this test.

• Brain Scans
  Either a CT scan or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is done to check for evidence of bleeding or stroke or hydrocephalus or tumor. PET scans may also be done. These scans help in determining the pattern of brain activity of the patient. It also shows if amyloid protein, which is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease is deposited or not.
• Psychiatric Evaluation
  A psychiatrist can help in determining whether depression or any other mental health symptoms are present.
• Neurological Evaluation
  In this test, language, problem-solving ability, visual perception, senses, reflexes, movement, memory, and other areas are evaluated.
• Lab Tests
  Simple blood tests can be conducted to check deficiency of vitamin B-12 or inactive or underactive thyroid gland. These tests can help in detecting the problems that affect the function of the brain. Spinal fluid can also test for infection, markers of some degenerative diseases or inflammation.

Treatment for dementia
Though many types of dementia can’t be cured, the symptoms can be managed. Here is how you can manage the symptoms of dementia.

• Medications
  These can help in temporarily improving dementia symptoms.
• Cholinesterase Inhibitors
  They boost levels of chemical messenger which are involved in judgment and memory. These are majorly used to treat Alzheimer’s disease but can also be used to treat Parkinson’s dementia, vascular dementia, and levy body dementia.
• Meantime
  It works by regulating the activity of glutamate which is involved in brain functions such as memory and learning.
• Other Medications
  Various other types of medications are used to treat other symptoms like sleep disturbances, depression or agitation.
• Occupational Therapy
  They will help in showing the patient how to cope with accidents and also managing behaviors.

Lifestyle and home remedies
The symptoms and behavior problems related to dementia get worse with time. Exercising and more communication with family members should be encouraged. Exercising will help in improving strength and cardiovascular health. Also, daily activities like dancing, painting, cooking, and gardening must also be encouraged.

Though there is no permanent medication that can treat dementia completely, medications can be helpful in coming up with symptoms. Do not lose hope and visit a doctor immediately if you feel that you are suffering from the symptoms of dementia.