Bruce Willis's family announced on Thursday that he has been diagnosed with dementia, which evolved from a previous diagnosis of aphasia made in the spring. More specifically, Willis suffers from frontotemporal dementia, which can also include aphasia, which makes it difficult for him to write and speak.
"Unfortunately, challenges with communication are just one symptom of the disease Bruce faces," his family said. "While this is painful, it is a relief to finally have a clear diagnosis."
Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a type of dementia that affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. It is a progressive neurological disorder that can cause a range of cognitive, behavioural, and language problems.
FTD is caused by degeneration of the nerve cells in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, leading to shrinkage or atrophy of those brain regions. Symptoms of FTD can vary depending on which parts of the brain are most affected, but they typically involve changes in personality, behaviour, and language skills.
Early symptoms of FTD may include apathy, loss of inhibition, social withdrawal, and changes in eating habits. As the disease progresses, individuals with FTD may experience language difficulties, such as trouble speaking, understanding language, or writing. They may also experience memory loss, movement problems, and changes in emotional responses.
There is currently no cure for FTD, but treatments and therapies can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for individuals with the condition. Treatment options may include medications to address specific symptoms, such as antidepressants or antipsychotics, and various types of therapy, such as speech and language therapy or occupational therapy.
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