What is DLB? - Dementia with Lewy Bodies

By 1st Focus Care Dementia May 5, 2025

What is Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB)?

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is a complex and multifaceted form of dementia that shares symptoms with both Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.

Characterised by the presence of Lewy bodies—abnormal protein deposits found in nerve cells—DLB is a progressive condition that affects cognitive abilities, movement, and behaviour. Understanding this condition is crucial for those affected and their caregivers, as it requires a specific approach to diagnosis and management.

The Science Behind Dementia with Lewy Bodies

Lewy bodies are clumps of a protein called alpha-synuclein that accumulate in the brain’s nerve cells. These deposits lead to the disruption of normal brain function, affecting cognition, movement, and behaviour.

The exact cause of DLB is not fully understood, but it’s believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. DLB is closely related to Parkinson’s disease dementia, and both conditions are sometimes referred to as Lewy body dementias.

Symptoms of Dementia with Lewy Bodies

DLB is characterized by a wide range of symptoms, which can vary significantly from person to person. Common symptoms include:

🔄 Cognitive fluctuations: Individuals with DLB often experience pronounced variations in attention and alertness, leading to episodes of confusion and disorientation that can change from day to day or even hour to hour.
👁️ Visual hallucinations: Vivid and recurrent visual hallucinations are a hallmark of DLB, often involving people or animals.
🧍 Parkinsonism: Symptoms similar to Parkinson’s disease, such as slowed movement, muscle stiffness, and tremors, are common.
😴 Sleep disturbances: Many individuals experience REM sleep behaviour disorder, causing them to act out dreams, sometimes violently.
⚙️ Autonomic dysfunction: Problems with automatic bodily functions, such as blood pressure regulation, temperature control, and digestion, can occur.

Because of the overlap of symptoms, DLB can be challenging to distinguish from Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, making accurate diagnosis crucial for effective management.

If you are worried that a family member is showing signs or behaviours of dementia, please read our blog post on the Key Stages of Dementia. This guide has been produced by the team at 1st Focus Homecare and explains what to look for in early-onset dementia.

What next?

If you feel that 1st Focus Homecare is a company you can trust, please contact our office on 0131 510 7878, where we can discuss your care needs. If we can help you or your loved one, we can arrange to meet you in person at your home to assess your care needs. Once an agreement is in place with you privately or via the local council, we will build you a care and support plan and agree on a start date.

Diagnosis of Dementia with Lewy Bodies

Diagnosing DLB involves a thorough assessment by healthcare professionals, including:

📋 Medical history and physical examination: To identify specific symptoms and rule out other conditions.
🧠 Cognitive testing: To evaluate memory, problem-solving, and other cognitive functions.
🧍 Neurological examination: To assess movement and other physical symptoms.
🖥️ Brain imaging: MRI or CT scans can help exclude other brain conditions and support the diagnosis of DLB by showing patterns of brain atrophy or other changes.
😴 Sleep studies: These may be conducted to identify REM sleep behaviour disorder.

Accurate diagnosis is essential, as some medications used to treat Alzheimer’s disease can exacerbate symptoms in individuals with DLB.

Treatment and Management

While there is currently no cure for DLB, several strategies can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:

💊 Medications: Cholinesterase inhibitors, used in Alzheimer’s treatment, can help manage cognitive symptoms in DLB. Parkinson’s medications may be used to address motor symptoms, although they can sometimes worsen psychiatric symptoms.
🧠 Non-drug approaches: Cognitive stimulation activities, physical therapy, and structured routines can support cognitive and physical health.
⚠️ Management of psychiatric symptoms: Antipsychotic medications should be used cautiously, as individuals with DLB are particularly sensitive to these drugs, and they can worsen symptoms.
🤝 Supportive therapies: Occupational therapy can help individuals maintain independence, while counselling and support groups provide emotional support for both individuals and caregivers.

The Impact on Families and Caregivers

Caring for someone with DLB can be particularly challenging due to the condition’s fluctuating symptoms and complex management needs. Caregivers often face emotional and physical demands, making access to support networks, respite care, and educational resources vital in managing their well-being and providing effective care.

Conclusion

Dementia with Lewy bodies is a unique and challenging form of dementia that requires a nuanced approach to diagnosis and management. By understanding the symptoms and complexities of DLB, individuals and their caregivers can work with healthcare professionals to develop effective management plans that improve quality of life. As research continues, there is hope for more targeted treatments and a deeper understanding of this condition, offering hope to those affected and their families.

What is DLB? - Dementia with Lewy Bodies