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Problems driving " � A person with DLB might get lost, not know how far it is from one place to another, or not see other cars.Problems at workMemory problemsA shorter attention span than normalProblems figuring out how to do normal daily activitiesSeeing things that are not really there " � Doctors call these "hallucinations. " � They can include colors, shapes, animals, or people.Being sleepy, staring at things, or acting strangely " � The person might take long naps during the day. The times of being sleepy, staring, or acting strangely can last a few minutes or several days.Movement problems " � These are similar to the movement problems caused by another brain disorder, called Parkinson disease. They can include:- Stiffness
- Slow movements
- Trouble walking
- Trembling
Other DLB symptoms can include: � �
- Acting out dreams while sleeping " � The person might hit someone, eat, talk, or do other things they are dreaming about.
- Falling down often
- Fainting or losing consciousness
- Leaking urine
- Believing things that are not true " � For example, a person with DLB might believe his or her house is not really home.
- Depression
Should I see a doctor or nurse? " � Yes. You should see a doctor or nurse if you think you or someone close to you shows signs of DLB. The problems might be caused by a different condition that doctors can treat. For example, people with diabetes might act confused if their blood sugar is not under control. � �
Will I need tests? " � Maybe. Your doctor or nurse will do an exam and talk with you about your symptoms. He or she will also ask people who are close to you about any symptoms they notice. � �
Your doctor or nurse might do tests to see if you have DLB or a different problem. These tests can include: � �
- Answering questions and doing certain tasks " � These tests can tell the doctor how well your brain is working.
- Imaging tests, such as an MRI " � An MRI creates pictures of the brain. It can show changes in the brain, including other conditions that could be causing symptoms.
- Blood tests
Depending on the results, you might have other tests. These can include: � �
- A test called an "electroencephalogram " � (also called an EEG) " � This test measures electrical activity in the brain.
- A test called a "sleep study " � " � In this test, you spend the night in a lab at the hospital or doctors office. You are hooked up to machines that measure your heart rate, breathing, and other body functions. The results tell your doctor more about any sleep problems you have.
How is DLB treated? " � There is no specific treatment for DLB. The symptoms get worse over time, but doctors can help treat the symptoms. Treatments include: � �
- Medicines to help with symptoms
- Physical therapy to help with movement problems
- Devices, such as a walker or cane, to help with balance problems such as falling down often.
Your doctor might also recommend things to reduce stress. These include: � �
- Exercise
- A regular routine " � Avoiding things that cause confusion or strange behavior can help with DLB. Having a regular routine at night can be especially helpful.
- Spending time with pets or listening to music
- Finding someone to help take care of the person with DLB " � This can make it easier for the person's main caregiver, such as his or her husband or wife, to get enough rest.
How do I stay safe? " � If you have DLB, you might not realize how much it affects you. Trust your family and friends to tell you when it is not safe for you to drive, cook, or do other things that could be dangerous. � �
People with DLB often fall and hurt themselves. To reduce the risk of falling, it is a good idea to: � �
- Make sure your rugs are attached to the floor, or use non-skid backing on them.
- Tuck away loose wires or electrical cords.
- Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes.
- Keep walkways well lit.
- Use hand rails on steps, in the shower, and other places where it can be hard to keep your balance.
All topics are updated as new evidence becomes available and our peer review process is complete. � �
This topic retrieved from UpToDate on: Nov 04, 2014. � �
Topic 83158 Version 3.0 � �
Release: 22.8 - C22.208 � �
� � 2014 UpToDate, Inc. All rights reserved. � �
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