Ted Turner, the media pioneer who founded CNN, lived with Lewy body dementia for years before his death on Wednesday at age 87. Tributes have poured in for the outspoken businessman, whose legacy includes creating the first 24-hour all-news TV network in 1980. The Associated Press reported that a cause of death was not released. In 2018, Turner revealed he had Lewy body dementia, a progressive brain disorder that can impair daily activities, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
What Causes Lewy Body Dementia?
Lewy body dementia (LBD) is the second most common type of dementia, per the Mayo Clinic. It includes two types: dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson's disease dementia. LBD causes a gradual decline in mental abilities and may involve visual hallucinations—seeing things that aren't there. Dr. Brintha Vasagar, a family medicine physician, explains that LBD is caused by abnormal deposits of alpha-synuclein proteins, called Lewy bodies, in the brain. The Cleveland Clinic notes these proteins damage parts of the brain controlling thinking and memory. Doctors and researchers do not know why some people develop LBD while others do not.
What Are the Symptoms of Lewy Body Dementia?
Symptoms vary by person and may come and go, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Main issues include:
- Trouble focusing or feeling confused
- Memory loss
- Hallucinations
- Depression, anxiety, or apathy
- Feeling paranoid
- Stiff muscles
- Tremors
- Trouble with balance, speech, or swallowing
People with LBD may also experience problems with blood pressure, digestion, sleep, or bladder and bowel control. An early indicator can be loss of smell. Symptoms tend to worsen over time.
How Is Lewy Body Dementia Diagnosed?
Diagnosing LBD can be challenging. Dr. Vasagar stated, "Lewy body dementia can be difficult to diagnose because the presenting symptoms are varied, there is no definitive test, and it can be easily confused with other types of dementia, such as Alzheimer's." She emphasized that thorough medical history, bloodwork, brain imaging, and neuropsychological testing are key to diagnosis. According to the National Institute on Aging, LBD affects men slightly more than women and typically begins at age 50 or older, though younger people may have it. Risk factors include REM sleep behavior disorder or loss of smell.
Can Lewy Body Dementia Be Treated?
Dr. Vasagar noted, "Unfortunately, there are no cures for Lewy body dementia. But medication, physical therapy, and behavioral interventions can help control symptoms. Getting an early, accurate diagnosis is the key to maintaining quality of life." Contact your healthcare provider with any concerns about symptoms you may experience.
