FTD has always intrigued and horrified me in equal measure. It is a lesser-known form of dementia that primarily affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, causing significant alterations in behavior and language. Though Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, FTD is classified differently and it important to appreciate this especially when we have people we care for who might be at risk.
Source
One thing I find most striking about FTD, would be how much it changes one’s eating habits. I am fascinated by the fact that individuals who are affected with FTD will often crave sugary fatty foods or carbohydrates. They may lack table manners and eat compulsively until they are full without knowing when to stop, such changes do not come just out of nowhere, it can reflect more serious issues with how our brains work. The wide range of behaviors controlled by our brain is simply amazing, however when things go wrong, this can become quite evident.
There are many other warning signs of FTD besides dietary changes. FTD makes individuals lose their compassion to others, act in an uncouth or impolite manner which is not like them. They can for instance act rashly and without restraint, doing things that they have never done before. It is hard seeing someone losing his social norms and control.
I imagine it’s even harder being the person going through it. They may appear subdued and uninterested in people and things that once gave them pleasure. This lack of ambition or motive power can be very poignant as your energetic former friend fades away.
The other symptom is loss of empathy. Losing this quality, which is so important to human relationship, could be calamitous. For example, People with FTD may be unable to understand how others feel leading to difficult social interactions as the repetitiveness and obsessive tendencies develop this further alienates them from friends and relatives.
Another worrying indicator of FTD is ignoring personal hygiene. It isn’t purely about forgetting to brush their teeth but rather extends to all forms of self-care measures like neglecting themselves entirely such that they don’t even realize what they are doing thereby causing a lot of anguish for those around them.
FTD is plagued with language problems as well. These encompass wrong use of words, a loss in vocabulary, and repeating a small number of phrases. Sometimes they will not even remember the meaning of common terms. Consequently, it may be difficult to communicate with people who have a FTD condition. Picture talking to somebody without being able to express yourself adequately or understand what they are saying. It is a major obstacle for maintaining relationships and independence.
Seeing an individual go through this situation because of FTD is so pathetic. You feel like you are losing bits and pieces of that person due to altering behavior, character traits, and speech patterns. Though it can be very hard, it is important to remain patient and sympathetic about this whole thing. We should note that people suffering from FTD do not choose this kind of conduct; it arises from their brain.
How tremendously important is to make people realize about FTD sometimes comes into my mind. Some may not be aware what it is and confuse it with other forms of dementia. A better understanding of FTD will facilitate provision of better care for those affected as well as their families. It’s necessary to stay updated and kind, providing assistance and empathy whenever we can.
Actually, frontotemporal dementia is more than just a memory-related disease, it is complicated and challenging. Behavior, language, personality are profoundly transformed by this condition.
These changes when acknowledged and the consequences of FTD appreciated can help us take care of our loved ones in the best way possible. It also reminds us how delicate and intricate our minds are, making us value mental wellness even more.
Posted Using InLeo Alpha