What does DLB mean in MEDICAL

Lewy bodies are abnormal deposits of proteins which have been found most common in the brains of people with DLB. These deposits develop inside nerve cells and can cause disruption of normal brain functions, leading to dementia symptoms such as confusion and memory loss.

Common signs and symptoms associated with DLB include cognitive impairments such as memory loss, visual hallucinations, daytime sleepiness, slowed thinking or movement, depression, anxiety, agitation, problems in making decisions or planning activities, confusion that waxes and wanes throughout the day, falls or balance issues.

Diagnosis of DLB usually begins with a comprehensive medical history review and physical examination to look for possible neurologic abnormalities. Additional tests may include neuroimaging studies (e.g., CT scan or MRI scan), a spinal tap to measure cerebrospinal fluid levels, electroencephalogram (EEG) to detect brain wave activity abnormalities etc.

There is no cure for DLB; however treatment plans can help manage some of its symptoms including behavioural changes due to confusion or agitation. Treatment may involve medications such as antipsychotics for psychosis or antidepressants for depression; counseling; physical therapy for improving mobility; occupational therapy to help maintain daily living skills; speech therapy to improve communication; nutrition therapy to ensure adequate nutrient intake; continuous monitoring to check vital signs etc.

Prognosis can vary depending upon an individual's age at diagnosis as well as any other co-existing health conditions they may have. Generally speaking though, it is difficult to predict how quickly an individual's condition may progress due to the variability in symptom severity from person to person. In addition lifestyle adjustments like eating healthfully and being physically active can be beneficial which could help slow down disease progression.