What Are the Telltale Signs of Frontotemporal Dementia?
What Are the Telltale Signs of Frontotemporal Dementia?
What's This About?
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) presents with unique symptoms that distinguish it from other types of dementia.
Contents
- Behavioral Changes
- Language Impairments
- Eating Habits and Compulsive Behaviors
Behavioral Changes
FTD often starts with noticeable changes in behavior. Individuals may become socially inappropriate, impulsive, or exhibit a lack of empathy. These shifts can be mistaken for psychiatric disorders, delaying accurate diagnosis.
Language Impairments
Language difficulties are common in FTD, particularly in primary progressive aphasia (PPA). Speech may become nonfluent, with trouble finding words or understanding complex sentences. These language issues often precede other cognitive declines.
Eating Habits and Compulsive Behaviors
Changes in eating habits, such as cravings for sweets or overeating, can occur. Some individuals develop compulsive rituals or new hobbies pursued obsessively. These symptoms reflect underlying changes in brain function.
FAQs
What behavioral changes indicate FTD?
Social inappropriateness and lack of empathy are key indicators.
How does FTD affect language?
It can cause nonfluent speech and difficulty understanding sentences.
Are eating habits affected by FTD?
Yes, cravings and overeating are common symptoms.
The Bottom Line
Identifying FTD symptoms early can lead to more effective management strategies.
Additional References
- Rosen HJ, Hartikainen KM, Jagust W, et al. Utility of clinical criteria in differentiating frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) from AD. Neurology 2002; 58:1608.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.