Cognitive disorders are disorders and conditions that affect a person’s ability to think. Individuals with such problems will have difficulty with memory, perception, and learning. Although different from actual knowledge, cognition plays an important role in a person’s ability to learn and ultimately live a healthy and normal life.
According to the Analytic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V), intellectual issues can fall into the following categories:
• Dementia – is a broad term that includes conditions that affect memory. One of the main signs of this problem is memory loss, which is often progressive. One of the most common types of this condition is Alzheimer’s disease.
• Developmental Disorder – This is a condition characterized by poor or delayed learning development. Autism disorders fall into this order.
• Delirium – Delirium is a rapid change in discernment or mindfulness. It happens out of nowhere and endures only for a short time, but can radically influence mind-set and conduct.
• Amnesia – Also known as amnesia syndrome, involves loss of memory including experiences and facts. However, unlike what is depicted in the movies, a person does not lose his identity.
Causes of Cognitive Disorder
Here are some common causes of cognitive problems:
• Brain injury – Brain injury can occur suddenly (acute trauma) or over time, especially when a person has had several strokes. A person may have difficulty remembering certain information, suffer from limited abilities such as speech, and lose some of his memory.
• Unknown causes – Many cognitive problems, have no definite cause, although a lot of research has been done to find answers. In the case of Alzheimer’s disease, many studies have shown that the buildup of plaque deposits called amyloid can contribute to the development of this condition. But it’s still not clear how plaque can develop.
• Substance abuse – Drug and alcohol abuse can decrease cognitive abilities and even lead to health problems such as memory loss.
• Presence of other illnesses – Diseases such as HIV, [Parkinson’s] (/en/info/condition/parkinson’s disease), and Huntington’s have been associated with dementia. Multiple sclerosis is also believed to negatively affect memory.
• Medication – An individual may create intellectual problems as a side effect of certain medications. A model is the chemo mind, which is portrayed by helpless consideration span, poor memory skills and an inability to concentrate properly. This can occur during and after treatment. However it is more common in people who have gone through chemotherapy. This condition can also occur in patients undergoing radiation therapy.
Main Symptoms of Cognitive Disorder
• Difficulty remembering facts, experiences, information, and details
• Difficulty learning new things
• Disorientation or confusion
• Depression
• Poor coordination of motor function
• Decreased ability to judge
• Poor social skills
• Glazed Appearance
Who to See and Treatments Available
Because there is no definite cause of cognitive impairment and the symptoms differ from person to person, there is no ultimate cure. Treatment varies and is often adjusted depending on the condition and symptoms. Cognitive problems are managed by different health care providers, from doctors to social workers.
Some well-known cognitive impairment treatments are:
• Therapy, including behavioral and occupational therapy to enable the patient to function as normally and independently as possible
• Contacting Tutoring Chicago Tutors who can help children’s cognitive improvement
• Drugs such as mood boosters and drugs that block or strengthen certain neurotransmitters associated with certain disorders
• Use of technology to improve information retention and memory
• Counseling for patients and their families
• Create an environment that makes better receptivity to patient care