difference between dementia and alzheimers

[ladybug8372]

What is the difference between dementia and alzheimers? My father was diagnosed a couple of years ago with dementia. I am just trying the figure out the difference between the two, as they seem to be so similar. I had asked his dr if he had alzheimers, and he said no, he has dementia...what is the difference?

[SnowyLynne63]

Dementia is an umbrella word for many dementias.Pin the Dr down.

[SciTeach]

Ladybug

Dementia is a problem with the brain that causes shortterm memory loss. It can eventually lead to problems with everyday activities. It can also cause mood and personality problems.

Dementia is caused by the destruction of brain cells. Destruction of brain cells can be causes by a head injury, a stroke, a brain tumor, Alzheimer's disease.

The only way a doctor can tell if dementia is of the Alzheimer type is to do a variety of tests to eliminate all other causes. They can do blood work, CT scans, etc. If all of the tests come back "normal" the doctor concludes that the dementia is of Alzheimer type. The only way at this time be positive is to do a brain autopsy after the person dies.

Hope this helps.

Sciteach