Best Doctors For Dementia In Pakistan

What is Dementia?

Dementia is not a solo disease. It is a group of symptoms that affects thinking, memory, and social abilities. Dementia interferes with the everyday activities of a person to behave, think, and respond. Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common types of dementia.

It mostly occurs in old age but it doesn’t mean aging leads to dementia. The disease’s severity varies from person to person. It is mild in some people but in others, it compromises basic life activities. 

Dementia most commonly affects the memory and involves memory loss. Memory loss is one of the most common and early symptoms of the onset of disease. But memory loss doesn’t mean that you’ve dementia. 

As per research conducted in 2023, it was concluded that the prevalence of dementia in Pakistan is ~150,000–200,000. 

Dementia Diagnosis

To perform the diagnosis of dementia, the doctors assess whether the person has any underlying condition or not. Moreover, the doctor also prescribes some tests to diagnose the disease. Some common tests that are performed to diagnose dementia are as follows:

• Blood Tests

Blood tests are used to rule out other medical conditions and diseases such as Vitamin B deficiency, inflammation, underactive thyroid, infection, etc.

• Brain Scans

Brain scans and imaging are performed to identify any tumors, strokes, etc, that can cause dementia. Moreover, brain scans can also diagnose changes in the functioning and structure of the brain. The most common scans are Computed Tomography (CT), Positron Emission Tomography (PET), and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

• Genetic Tests

Some types of dementia can be due to the genes of a person. In this case, the doctor might prescribe genetic tests to know whether the person has any family history of dementia or not. 

• Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Tests

CSF is a clear fluid that surrounds the spinal cord and the brain and provides insulation and protection. The doctors collect CSF by performing lumbar punctures to measure the level of proteins that can help in the diagnosis of Alzheimer's or other types related to dementia.

• Psychiatric Evaluation

If someone is experiencing any sort of mental issues, then a psychiatric evaluation is performed to diagnose the underlying cause. In some cases, a questionnaire is prepared for the patient to evaluate thinking, processing, and reasoning abilities. 

Dementia Treatment

Foremost, it is essential to understand the terms “reversible”, “treatable”, and “curable”. Treatments can cure all forms of dementia but many types of dementia are not reversible or curable. On the other hand, it is possible to reverse some forms of dementia successfully. 

• Medications

Many medications that treat Alzheimer’s Disease also treat dementia symptoms. However, it is preferable to use the medicines that a professional dementia specialist prescribes. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are the most commonly used medicines to slow down the disease progression.

• Therapies

Medicines are only a part of treating the symptoms of dementia. Apart from medicines, healthcare providers perform many therapies to enhance the mental capability of the patient. They perform therapies like Cognitive stimulation therapy (CST), Cognitive rehabilitation, etc to help people with dementia.

• Lifestyle Modifications

Dementia problems, symptoms, and behavioral problems can get worse over time. Therefore, it is necessary to do lifestyle modifications as well. Patients of dementia should exercise regularly, practice yoga, or engage themselves in any physical activity. 

• Home Remedies

Apart from medications, therapies, and lifestyle modifications, certain home remedies can also benefit the patients. Certain oils such as ginkgo biloba, curcumin, or coconut oil can also prove effective in calming down the nerves of patients.

Book an Appointment Now!

Are you searching for a trusted expert in dementia within Lahore? Let Marham guide you! We simplify the process, connecting you directly to top-notch Dementia specialists adept in dementia care.

Explore our platform to find certified and recognized dementia professionals, ready to offer in-person and virtual consultations that suit your convenience.

Book your appointment today with a leading dementia expert in Lahore via Marham.pk or you can also reach out to us by calling us at 03111222398.

You can also download Marham’s app by clicking here. You can also book an appointment with any Warts specialist near you for the app.