Cognitive Disorders: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

The cognitive problems are a group of diseases that affect memory, perception and problem solving. They can be caused by brain injury, chronic illness or mental disorders. Symptoms include memory loss, walking difficulties, language and attention problems. Treatment includes cognitive rehabilitation therapy, cognitive stimulation and problem-solving therapies, among others. Specialised professionals, associations, books, can be of great help in the treatment of cognitive disorders.

What are cognitive disorders?

Cognitive disorders are conditions that interfere with the normal functioning of the brain. and can impair perception, thinking, memory and other cognitive functions. There are different types of cognitive disorders, which are described below:

Definition of cognitive disorders

The cognitive problems are disturbances in the cognitive functions of the brain, which can affect memory, thinking, perceptual skills and learning.

Basic cognitive functions

The basic cognitive functions include attention, memory, perception, language, reasoning and problem-solving skills. These functions are essential for the proper functioning of the brain and can be affected by cognitive disorders.

Types of cognitive disorders

Cognitive disorders can be caused by different factors and present themselves in different ways. The main types of cognitive disorders are:

• Direct cognitive impairmentThese are defined by a decline in cognitive functions such as loss of memory and intellectual abilities.
• Cognitive anxiety disordersThese are those that appear after an episode of anxiety, worry, fear or dread, or after the onset of panic attacks.
• Organic cognitive disordersThese are caused by brain diseases or head injuries.
• Cognitive disorders due to deliriumThese are those that occur after having suffered a very serious psychological and/or pathological condition or a serious illness.
• Psychotic cognitive disordersCognitive disorders are all those cognitive conditions that manifest themselves in patients with mental disorders such as schizophrenia, and which affect their capacity for discernment and judgement.

The different types of cognitive disorders may be caused by brain injuries, chronic diseases or mental disorders, so it is essential to identify them in order to receive appropriate treatment after a proper assessment and diagnosis.

Symptoms of cognitive disorders

Cognitive disorders can manifest themselves in different symptoms that affect a person's perception, thinking and memory. Symptoms may vary depending on the type of cognitive disorder present and the severity of the disorder. Among the most common symptoms are:

Memory loss

The memory loss is one of the most characteristic symptoms of cognitive disorders. This loss can be short-term or long-term and can affect both recent and remote memory. The person may forget important events such as birthdays, recently visited places or medical appointments. In addition, they may have difficulty remembering information they have previously learned.

Walking difficulties

Some cognitive disorders may affect the person's motor coordination, causing difficulties in walking. The person may suffer from unsteadiness in walking and have difficulty changing direction. They may also have problems lifting their feet off the ground when walking, known as "shuffling".

Speech and language problems

Cognitive disorders can affect a person's language and ability to speak. The person may have difficulties in finding the right wordsmay have difficulty speaking in complete sentences or understanding the language of others. In some cases, they may have difficulty communicating in general.

Difficulties in attention and concentration

Another common symptom of cognitive impairment is the difficulty in maintaining attention and concentration. The person may have difficulty concentrating on a specific task and may be easily distracted. They may also have problems planning and organising tasks, which may affect their ability to carry out everyday activities.

Diagnosis and treatment of cognitive disorders

The neuropsychology and neuropsychology is responsible for the assessment and treatment of people with cognitive disorders. Professionals in this area use a combination of neurological (mainly blood tests, cerebrospinal fluid tests and neuroimaging) and psychological tests to carry out a comprehensive assessment of the patient. Some of the therapies that can be used to treat cognitive disorders are described below.

Cognitive rehabilitation therapy

The cognitive rehabilitation therapy is a treatment that focuses on improving a person's cognitive skills. This therapy may include training in memory, attention, language and other cognitive functions, depending on the patient's specific needs. The goals of therapy are to improve the patient's ability to carry out daily activities, as well as to improve their quality of life and their ability to interact with their environment.

Cognitive stimulation

The cognitive stimulation is another type of therapy used to treat cognitive disorders. This therapy focuses on providing an enriching and stimulating environment to improve the patient's cognitive functions. Cognitive stimulation may include reading, writing, games and exercises specifically designed to improve the patient's cognitive ability.

Pharmacological Therapies

There are several drug treatments and supplements that can help stabilise or slow the progression of degenerative cognitive impairment, such as Alzheimer's disease.

The neurologist is the professional who can best recommend which treatment may be of most benefit in each case and at each specific moment.

Risk factors and prevention of cognitive disorders

Cognitive disorders are disturbances in mental processes including memory, attention and perception. These disorders can be caused by different factors, such as chronic diseases or mental disorders. In the following, the risk factors for their development and how to prevent them will be detailed.

Risk factors for the development of cognitive disorders

Risk factors that may contribute to the development of cognitive disorders include:

• Advanced age
• Genetics
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Excessive use of alcohol or drugs
• Smoking
• Exposure to toxic substances
• Chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia

It is important to note that these risk factors can be modified through prevention.

Prevention of cognitive disorders

Prevention of cognitive disorders focuses on reducing risk factors and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Some of the preventive measures include:

• Maintain a healthy and balanced diet, based on the Mediterranean diet.
• Exercise the brain through memory games, reading and learning new skills.
• Exercise your body regularly with moderate physical activity, such as walking, aerobics or yoga.
• Maintaining a healthy body weight
• Avoid alcohol and drug use
• Do not smoke or be exposed to tobacco smoke.

The role of a healthy diet and physical exercise in the prevention of cognitive disorders

A healthy diet and physical exercise are key to preventing cognitive impairment. A balanced diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, fish, olive oil and whole grains, has been associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline.

On the other hand, moderate physical exercise, such as walking, swimming or yoga, has been shown to have a beneficial effect on cognitive function. In addition, a combination of a healthy diet and regular physical exercise helps to reduce the risk of chronic diseases that can affect cognitive health.

Associations, products and services related to cognitive disorders

There are different options for people seeking information and help related to cognitive disorders. The following are some of them:

Books on Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's is one of the best known and most studied cognitive disorders. There are a wide variety of books that deal with the disease and provide useful information for both sufferers and their families and caregivers. Some examples of recommended books are:

• Eric Kandel's "Head in the Clouds".
• "Alzheimer's: Everything You Need to Know" by Marwan Sabbagh
• "My grandmother no longer remembers my name" by Isabel Estapé

Products and services related to cognitive disorders

There are different products and services that can help people suffering from cognitive disorders. Some of them are:

• Locating devices for people with dementia: are devices that allow caregivers or relatives to locate people with dementia in case they become lost or disoriented.
  
  
• Cognitive stimulation games: There are different games and activities that can help stimulate the cognitive functions of people with cognitive impairment. Examples include puzzles, board games and mobile apps.
  
  
• Care services for the elderly: There are different day centres and homes for the elderly that offer specialised care services for people with cognitive disorders.

Professionals specialising in the treatment of cognitive disorders

There are different professionals who can help in the treatment and rehabilitation of cognitive disorders. Some of them are:

• Neurologists: doctors specialising in the study and treatment of diseases of the nervous system.
  
  
• Psychiatrists: doctors specialising in the study and treatment of mental disorders.
  
  
• Psychologists: professionals specialising in the study of human behaviour and the application of therapeutic techniques to prevent and treat psychological problems.
  
  
• Occupational therapists: professionals specialised in the rehabilitation of people with physical or mental disabilities and in the implementation of activities to improve their cognitive and social skills.

Case studies on overcoming cognitive disorders

The overcoming cognitive impairment may seem like a difficult task, but through case studies we can find inspiration and motivation to face the challenges involved. Here are some cases of people who have managed to overcome or learn to live with cognitive impairment.

Case 1: Maria, Alzheimer's patient

Maria, 75, was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease 5 years ago. Her husband and daughter decided to care for her at home. At first, Maria showed signs of confusion and memory loss, and her family had to adapt to Maria's needs and behavioural changes. After working with her doctor and a cognitive rehabilitation therapist, Maria's family began to notice improvements in her attention and memory. Maria also joined cognitive stimulation activities, including games and exercises that improved her communication and problem-solving skills.

Lessons learned:

• It is important to have a support team, including medical professionals and therapists, as well as caregivers and family members.
  
  
• Adapting the daily routine to the patient's needs can make a big difference to their quality of life.
  
  
• Cognitive stimulation can help maintain or improve cognitive functions in Alzheimer's patients.

Case 2: Jorge, traumatic brain injury patient

Jorge suffered a traumatic brain injury after being involved in a car accident 2 years ago. Although his rehabilitation was long and difficult, Jorge never gave up and worked tirelessly with his therapists to regain his cognitive skills. Through problem-solving therapy sessions and cognitive training games, Jorge improved his memory and problem solving. He also joined support groups for brain-injured patients and found inspiration and friendships in people with similar experiences.

Lessons learned:

• Recovery from traumatic brain injury can be a long and difficult process, but it is never impossible.
  
  
• Working closely with therapists and doctors is crucial on the road to recovery.
  
  
• Support groups can provide inspiration and motivation for patients in similar circumstances.

Case 3: Alicia, a patient with depression and anxiety disorder

Alicia has been dealing with depression and anxiety disorder for several years. Through cognitive behavioural therapy, she learned to identify and change negative thought patterns and reduce her anxiety. She also incorporated relaxation techniques, such as meditation and yoga, into her daily routine. Through the support of her therapist and community of friends, Alicia learned to manage her symptoms and regain her quality of life.

Lessons learned:

• Cognitive behavioural therapy can be an effective tool for managing depression and anxiety disorder.
  
  
• Incorporating relaxation and mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and yoga, can reduce anxiety.
  
  
• The support of friends and family can be crucial in recovery from mental disorders.