DIALYSIS DEMENTIA Meaning and
Definition
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Dialysis dementia is a medical term used to describe a specific type of cognitive impairment that may arise in individuals undergoing dialysis treatment, particularly long-term hemodialysis. Hemodialysis is a procedure used to filter waste products and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys are not functioning properly. This condition is often associated with chronic renal failure and the accumulation of aluminum in the brain.
Symptoms of dialysis dementia typically include confusion, memory problems, difficulties with concentration and attention, language impairment, and overall cognitive decline. In severe cases, individuals may even experience hallucinations and delusions. The exact cause of dialysis dementia is not fully understood, but it is believed to be multifactorial, with numerous contributing factors including aluminum toxicity, cerebral vascular disease, anemia, high blood pressure, and certain metabolic disorders.
The treatment for dialysis dementia focuses on addressing the underlying causes and managing the associated symptoms. Strategies may involve reducing the aluminum load through adjustments to the dialysis process, managing anemia and blood pressure, and ensuring proper nutrition and hydration. Additionally, various medications may be administered to alleviate symptoms such as confusion, agitation, and mood disturbances.
It is important to note that dialysis dementia is a relatively rare condition, occurring primarily in individuals with long-term exposure to dialysis treatments. With advancements in dialysis techniques and improved patient care, the prevalence of dialysis dementia has significantly decreased over the years.
Common Misspellings for DIALYSIS DEMENTIA
- sialysis dementia
- xialysis dementia
- cialysis dementia
- fialysis dementia
- rialysis dementia
- eialysis dementia
- dualysis dementia
- djalysis dementia
- dkalysis dementia
- doalysis dementia
- d9alysis dementia
- d8alysis dementia
- dizlysis dementia
- dislysis dementia
- diwlysis dementia
- diqlysis dementia
- diakysis dementia
- diapysis dementia
- diaoysis dementia
- dialtsis dementia
Etymology of DIALYSIS DEMENTIA
The term "dialysis dementia" is derived from two main components: "dialysis" and "dementia".
1. Dialysis: The word "dialysis" comes from the Greek word "dialusis", which means "dissolution" or "separation". In medical context, dialysis refers to a procedure used to remove waste products, excess water, and toxins from the blood in individuals with kidney failure or chronic kidney disease. The term was coined by Dr. Willem Kolff, a Dutch physician who pioneered the development of dialysis machines during World War II.
2. Dementia: The term "dementia" comes from the Latin word "demenes", which means "out of one's mind" or "mad". It is a general term used to describe a set of symptoms associated with cognitive decline, memory loss, impaired thinking, and behavioral changes.
