Time: 2024-08-01
Dementia is a prevalent condition among older adults in the United States , affecting almost 10 % of individuals over 65 years old . With another 22 % experiencing mild cognitive impairment , the burden on families and caregivers is immense . Over 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for loved ones with dementia , leading to emotional and financial strain . The CDC highlights the challenges faced by caregivers , noting that individuals with dementia may struggle with recognizing their caregivers , expressing their needs , and becoming completely reliant on them for daily activities like eating and bathing.
Research has shown that a significant percentage of older patients diagnosed with dementia may actually have a treatable liver condition mimicking cognitive decline . Dr. Jasmohan Bajaj and his team at Virginia Commonwealth University discovered that 13 % of dementia patients had elevated Fibrosis-4 ( FIB-4 ) scores for cirrhosis , a condition that can lead to hepatic encephalopathy resembling dementia . Early detection of such treatable causes can prevent unnecessary suffering for patients and families , underscoring the importance of conducting simple screening tests for Liver diseases in individuals presenting with dementia symptoms.
Legislation aimed at restricting the reporting of suspected dementia cases , such as the requirement in California to inform the Department of Motor Vehicles about elderly drivers with dementia , may have unintended consequences . Studies have found that such laws could result in underdiagnosis of dementia as patients conceal their symptoms to retain their driving privileges . This underscores the need for policies that enable healthcare professionals to identify treatable causes of cognitive impairment without fear of negative repercussions for patients.
Recent research has shed light on the link between undiagnosed cirrhosis and cognitive impairment in dementia patients . Up to 13 % of individuals with dementia may have underlying liver conditions leading to hepatic encephalopathy , a reversible cause of cognitive decline . Identifying and treating these conditions early can significantly improve the quality of life for affected individuals and their families.
A study published in The American Journal of Medicine revealed that a significant proportion of dementia patients may have undiagnosed cirrhosis , leading to hepatic encephalopathy . Dr. Jasmohan S. Bajaj and his team analyzed data from over 68,000 non - veteran patients with dementia and found that 13 % had lab values indicative of cirrhosis . These findings underscore the need for increased awareness among healthcare providers regarding the potential overlap between liver diseases and cognitive impairment.
Risk factors associated with elevated Fibrosis-4 ( FIB-4 ) scores included viral hepatitis infections , congestive heart failure , HIV , male sex , chronic kidney disease , and alcohol use disorder . Conversely , white race and diabetes were inversely associated with FIB-4 scores . Early detection and treatment of undiagnosed cirrhosis can prevent complications like hepatocellular cancer and improve cognitive function in dementia patients.
Healthcare professionals caring for individuals with dementia should be vigilant about the possibility of underlying liver conditions contributing to cognitive decline . By identifying and addressing treatable causes like hepatic encephalopathy , the overall well - being of dementia patients can be significantly enhanced , emphasizing the critical role of early intervention in managing cognitive impairments.
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