by 
The Curious Bag
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Dementia is a disorder in which your thinking, memory and ability to learn deteriorate. Since dementia progressively diminishes your memory, there are early symptoms.
Significance
According to the Merck Manual, dementia is the reason for more than approximately 50 percent of nursing home admissions. Typically, dementia takes two to 10 years to develop.
Mental Loss
An early dementia symptom is mental loss, according to the Merck Manual. For instance, you might have difficulty understanding language or finding the right word. You might have trouble with daily tasks like driving, paying bills or remembering where you placed items.
Other Changes
Another early symptom is sudden emotional changes. You might feel sad then suddenly excited and happy. You also might experience personality changes.
Diagnosis
A dementia diagnosis is based on mental status tests, physical exams and blood tests, according to the Merck Manual.
Treatment
Although there is no cure, medications like rivastigmine and donepezil, are used to temporarily improve early signs of dementia.
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