Rapidly Progressive Dementia: What You Need to Know

Dementia is a condition that affects our cognitive functioning.

Dementia is a condition that affects our cognitive functioning. It can impact our memories and ability to process events and experiences. Dementia can severely impact an individual's agency and independence over time.

But what is rapidly progressive dementia, and how is it different? In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about rapidly progressive dementia. From recognising the symptoms, to how to help manage it and more.

For personalised advice, contact our team at Bluebird Care today.

 

What is Rapidly Progressive Dementia

 

Dementia is a term used to categorise a range of conditions that affect people’s memory. It also affects other cognitive skills, such as problem-solving and language. Dementia usually starts with mild symptoms and develops gradually over several years. This is where rapidly progressive dementia differs.

Rapidly progressive dementia is a form of dementia that develops over a number of weeks or months. In uncommon cases, it can even develop over several days. It is difficult to determine how common rapidly progressive dementia is. However, some single-centre studies state that “around one-quarter of hospitalised patients with dementia were classified as RPD.”

While the onset of RPD can be a frightening development, it is often caused by the development of other conditions. If the symptoms and causes are identified and treated, many people who experience RPD can improve with time.

 

What to Look Out For

There are many different symptoms of rapidly progressive dementia. Being able to identify these can help people receive the treatment they need when they need it most. These are the more common symptoms:

• Memory loss or lapses
• Difficulty speaking and understanding
• Mood or personality changes
• Difficulty controlling their movement
• Feeling confused or disorientated

 

Many of the symptoms are the same as dementia symptoms. The difference lies in the rate at which they develop. If you notice your loved one struggling with memory lapses or any of these other symptoms, it is recommended you seek professional advice.

 

Causes of Rapidly Progressive Dementia

 

Many different conditions can cause RPD to develop. These include the development of diseases such as Alzheimer's, autoimmune conditions, cancer and other neurodegenerative diseases. Each of these conditions can impact the functioning of the brain, which then causes dementia symptoms to rapidly develop.

However, these diseases are not the only cause. Events and injuries can also impede and affect the functioning of the brain. Seizures and infections can cause these injuries to occur. Likewise, exposure to toxic elements or lack of necessary vitamins can impact the blood flow to the brain or cause other injuries. With a combination of these or even just one, rapidly progressive dementia can begin to develop.

 

How to Diagnose Rapidly Progressive Dementia

 

Rapidly progressive dementia can be difficult to diagnose. Much like dementia, it is a blanket term for the different diseases that affect brain functioning. If you’ve noticed you have developed these symptoms, or someone you love has, it is important to see a doctor.

Your doctor will most likely conduct several tests, ranging from blood analysis to MRI scans, to determine the cause of your condition. Depending on the cause of the condition, some of the symptoms of rapidly progressive dementia could be reversible. But this depends on your loved one’s unique situation.

 

Caring for Someone Living with Rapidly Progressive Dementia

 

Rapidly progressive dementia can be distressing for the people affected. Those living with the condition will most likely begin to feel agitated or confused. If the cause of RPD is not treatable, the condition may worsen over time. In these cases, it is important to focus on the comfort of the person affected.

Communicating clearly can help people with the condition feel more aware and involved. Familiar surroundings and clear routines can also help the person feel more comfortable. While their mental functioning may be impeded, it is important to let the people affected make their own choices when they can. This helps maintain their sense of agency and independence.

 

Finding Resources to Help

 

If your loved one has recently been diagnosed, you might be feeling overwhelmed and wondering where to turn. While rapidly progressive dementia can feel like a sudden change, there are resources you can turn to for help.

At Bluebird Care, we work to provide valuable information for people affected by dementia. Likewise, we offer support services for those in need. If your loved one has been diagnosed, contact our team today. We are happy to help with any of your concerns, whenever you need.

 

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