regression after diagnosis

Riverhills

My DH was diagnosed April 1 and since then he has shown more memory loss, incontinence and anger. Sleeps all the time and fluctuates from completely conversational to almost coma like. Has this happened to any one else?

Rescue mom

That sounds like a lot, in less than a month. A UTI may account for extreme sudden mood/behavior changes. All those behaviors happen as the disease progresses, but this sounds fast…Not sure what other factors could be involved, maybe new/different meds? 

You didn’t mention age, early onset also often moves faster than others.

 Also, vascular dementia tends to have sudden, sharp declines (as compared to Alzheimer’s which is usually a more gradual, steady decline).

​fesk

In addition to the above, were any new meds started after the appointment? Could be side effects.

harshedbuzz

Riverhills-

Hello and welcome. I am sorry for your reason to be here but glad you have found this place.

It's really hard to say. Stair-step progression is often seen in vascular dementia. It might also be seen after a hospitalization or anesthesia or a TIA/stroke. It can be seen with UTIs and other illnesses. Side effects to medications are also a possibility, if his doctor started him on an antipsychotic for mood/anger sleepiness is often a short-term side effect.

You might get a test for UTI from his PCP and ask his neurologist about progression if that is negative. I would also ask for a referral to a geri psychiatrist for medication to ease his anger. Often anger comes from anxiety is it is a kindness to dial that back.

HB