“Lewy Body dementias” is a term referring to two closely related disorders: dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Parkinson disease-dementia (PDD).  

‍

DLB is typically managed by neurologists specializing in memory because initial symptoms are cognitive and behavioral, whereas PDD is typically managed by movement disorder experts, since initial symptoms mainly affect motor function.  

‍

Symptoms of DLB may include
‍

• Fluctuations in attention and alertness that can vary dramatically even within the same day.
  ‍
• Visual hallucinations, delusions, mood swings and/or agitation.
  ‍
• Spontaneous movement that looks similar to Parkinson's disease.
  ‍
• REM sleep behavior disorder (physically acting out dreams with movements and vocalizations).

‍

While the exact cause of DLB is not known, it is characterized by the accumulation of abnormal protein deposits in the brain (Lewy bodies), composed of “alpha-synuclein”.

‍

Treatment approaches
‍

• Cholinesterase inhibitors, which often provide more noticeable up-front improvement for DLB patients than for Alzheimer's patients.
  ‍
• Medications like carbidopa/levodopa for movement symptoms when they significantly affect mobility or daily tasks.
  ‍
• Non-pharmacological approaches can help with behavioral symptoms like mood swings.

Learn more about the other memory disorders we treat at Neura Health.

‍

Neura Health’s memory specialists are ready to help you or a loved one living with DLB, and offer video appointments within just one week, on average. These short wait times mean more opportunities for early intervention.  Book a video visit today!

‍

‍