Lewy Body Dementia

Lewy body dementia (LBD) is a type of progressive dementia caused by abnormal deposits of a protein called alpha-synuclein in the brain. These deposits, known as Lewy bodies, interfere with brain chemicals and lead to problems with memory, thinking, movement and behavior.

LBD shares features with both Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, which can make diagnosis challenging. It often affects attention, visual perception and alertness earlier than memory.

There are two main types of Lewy body dementia, which are closely related and often overlap:

• Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), where cognitive symptoms appear first or around the same time as movement symptoms
• Parkinson’s disease dementia, where movement symptoms develop first and cognitive decline follows later

Symptoms of Lewy body dementia can vary widely and may fluctuate from day to day. Common symptoms include:

• Changes in thinking, attention and alertness
• Visual hallucinations, often early in the disease
• Movement problems such as stiffness, tremor or slow movement
• Sleep disturbances, including acting out dreams
• Changes in mood, including depression or anxiety
• Difficulty with problem-solving and decision-making

The exact cause of Lewy body dementia is not fully understood, but it is linked to the buildup of Lewy bodies in the brain.

Risk factors may include:

• Age over 60
• Male sex
• Family history of dementia or Parkinson’s disease
• Certain genetic factors

These protein changes affect brain regions responsible for thinking, movement and behavior.

Diagnosing Lewy body dementia can be complex because symptoms overlap with other neurological conditions. A comprehensive evaluation may include:

• Medical history and neurological examination
• Cognitive and memory testing
• Brain imaging such as MRI or CT scans
• Sleep studies if REM sleep behavior disorder is suspected

Doctors also look for key clinical features such as fluctuating cognition, hallucinations and movement symptoms to help confirm the diagnosis.

There is no cure for Lewy body dementia, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. A personalized care plan may include:

• Medications to improve cognition and alertness
• Medications to manage movement symptoms
• Treatment for sleep disorders and mood changes
• Physical, occupational and speech therapy

Care plans are tailored to each individual and may involve a multidisciplinary team of neurologists, therapists and support specialists.

Lewy body dementia can lead to several complications as the condition progresses, including:

• Increased risk of falls due to movement problems
• Severe confusion or behavioral changes
• Difficulty swallowing
• Increased vulnerability to infections

Early management can help reduce the risk of complications and support safety.

There is no proven way to prevent Lewy body dementia. However, maintaining overall brain health may help reduce risk:

• Staying physically active
• Eating a balanced diet
• Managing chronic conditions such as high blood pressure
• Staying mentally and socially engaged

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of Lewy body dementia, early evaluation is important. Our team at Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care offers comprehensive assessments and personalized treatment plans.

To schedule a visit with a Baptist Health Brain & Spine Care provider, fill out an appointment request form or call 833-596-3876.