What is Lewy body dementia? The brain condition Patrick Stewart was diagnosed with
New Delhi: The death of veteran actor Patrick Stewart has put the spotlight on Lewy body dementia, a lesser-known but complex neurological condition that can affect everything from memory and attention to movement, sleep and even what a person sees.
Stewart, who died at the age of 86, was diagnosed with both Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia. While Alzheimer’s is widely recognised, Lewy body dementia is not discussed nearly as often. Its symptoms can also look like those of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, making the condition particularly tricky to identify.
So, what exactly happens in Lewy body dementia, and what are the warning signs families shouldn’t simply write off as ageing?
What is Lewy body dementia?
Speaking exclusively to News9 Digital, Dr Bhaskar Shukla, Consultant Neurologist, PSRI Hospital, New Delhi, explained, “Lewy body dementia is a progressive neurological condition that affects the brain and gradually impacts a person’s memory, thinking, behaviour, movement and ability to carry out everyday activities. It is caused by the abnormal accumulation of a protein called alpha-synuclein inside brain cells. These deposits are known as Lewy bodies. They interfere with the normal functioning of brain cells and affect areas responsible for memory, concentration, visual perception and muscle control.”
Lewy body dementia vs Alzheimer’s: What’s the difference?
Dr Shukla further explained, “One of the reasons this condition is difficult to identify is that its symptoms can overlap with Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. However, there are some distinctive features. Patients may experience visual hallucinations, where they see people, animals or objects that are not actually present. They may also have periods of confusion, fluctuating alertness, difficulty concentrating and problems with spatial awareness.”
“Another important symptom is a change in movement. Some patients develop stiffness, tremors, slow movements and difficulty maintaining balance. Sleep disturbances are also common. A person may physically act out their dreams, including shouting, kicking or moving their arms while asleep. These symptoms may appear gradually and can vary significantly from one individual to another,” he added.
Dr Shukla said, “Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, where memory problems are often among the earliest symptoms, Lewy body dementia can initially present with changes in attention, alertness, movement, sleep and visual perception. Memory impairment may develop as the condition progresses.”
Commonly diagnosed in older people
“The condition is more commonly diagnosed in people above 60, and age is one of the important risk factors. There is currently no permanent cure, but medications, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and supportive care can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life,” Dr Shukla told us.
Talking about Patrick Stewart’s diagnosis, he said, “Patrick Stewart’s reported diagnosis of both Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia also highlights that these conditions can coexist. When they occur together, the symptoms can become more complex, making diagnosis and management challenging. It is important not to dismiss persistent changes in memory, behaviour, sleep or movement as normal ageing. Early medical evaluation by a neurologist can help identify the condition and ensure appropriate care and support.”
When should you see a doctor?
Occasional forgetfulness is not, in and of itself, dementia. But ongoing changes that start to affect daily life are cause for concern. Red flags may include persistent confusion, changes in behaviour or concentration, seeing things that aren’t there, unexplained stiffness or slowing of movement, frequent balance problems and acting out dreams repeatedly during sleep.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.