Actor Bruce Willis diagnosed with dementia

Bruce Willis’ family says the actor has been diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD).

The announcement Thursday came about a year after his family said that Willis would step away from acting after being diagnosed with aphasia – a brain disorder that leads to problems with speaking, reading and writing.

There are different types of dementia. The frontotemporal form affects regions in the front and sides of the brain.  This form of dementia causes problems with behavior and language, so aphasia can be a symptom. Symptoms can include emotional problems and physical difficulties, such as trouble walking.

Symptoms tend to worsen over time.  There are no treatments to slow or stop the disease, but some interventions can help manage symptoms.  Some patients receive antidepressants or drugs for Parkinson’s, which has some overlapping symptoms with frontotemporal dementia. Many also work with speech therapists to manage communication difficulties and physical therapists to try to improve movement.  People with the condition are more likely to have complications from things like falls, injuries or infections.

The average life expectancy after symptoms emerge is seven to 13 years, according to researchers.

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