Concussion Frontotemporal Research
Frontotemporal dementia broadly is a disorder that attacks the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. These are associated with behavior, language and personality. It strikes people between the ages of 40 and 70, unlike Parkinson’s disease. Very often it has been misdiagnosed as a psychiatric problem or Alzheimer’s disease. |
In frontotemporal dementia, parts of the frontal and temporal lobes shrink. The symptoms vary, depending on which portion of the brain is affected. Some undergo distinct personality changes and are impulsive and socially inappropriate. There is marked euphoria. Behavior sometimes is repetitive. Personal hygiene is neglected. There is indifference shown to others. What is worse is the fact that the patient is unaware of what is happening to himself.
There is a language problem as well. There is loss of speech and difficulty in understanding written or spoken language. Sometimes, speech is grammatically correct but has no bearing to the conversation at hand.
There are movement disorders that take place also. These are similar to Parkinson’s disease. Signs of movement disorders are rigidity and tremors. At times, there are muscle weakness and muscle spasms. Difficulty in swallowing is another sign. Lack of proper coordination is evident.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for frontotemporal dementia. The signs and symptoms have to be controlled. Treatment should hinge on the following:
- Anti depressants help to relieve and reduce behavioral problems
- Sometimes, anti psychotic drugs are used to overcome these behavioral problems. But side effects can be expected, like risk of mortality in older people.
- Speech therapy benefits those who experience language difficulties where alternative methods of communication are used.
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