Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a type of dementia that primarily affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, leading to changes in behavior, personality, and language. The first signs of FTD can vary depending on the subtype of the disease, but common early symptoms include changes in behavior, such as apathy, disinhibition, and loss of empathy. Patients may also exhibit changes in personality, such as increased impulsivity, irritability, or lack of judgment. Additionally, early signs of FTD can involve difficulties with language, including speech problems, trouble finding the right words, or difficulty understanding language. Other early symptoms may include social withdrawal, repetitive behaviors, or lack of interest in activities that were previously enjoyed. It is important to note that the symptoms of FTD can be subtle and may be mistaken for normal aging or other psychiatric conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to seek medical evaluation if any of these signs are present, as early diagnosis and intervention can help manage the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.
How long can you live with Bruce Willis disease?
The average life expectancy for someone with frontotemporal dementia, which Bruce Willis has, is seven to 13 years after diagnosis, per the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration.
What is the cause of frontotemporal dementia?
In most cases, the cause of a FTD is unknown. Individuals with a family history of FTD are more likely to develop such a disorder. About 10 to 30% of bvFTD is due to specific genetic causes. FTD that runs in a family is often related to variants (permanent changes) in certain genes.
What is the most prominent symptom of frontotemporal dementia?
The most common FTD, bvFTD, involves changes in personality, behavior, and judgment. People with this disorder may have problems with cognition, but their memory may stay relatively intact. Symptoms can include: Problems planning and sequencing (thinking through which steps come first, second, and so on)
What is Bruce Willis health condition?
What happened to Bruce Willis? Bruce Willis was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, aka FTD, and had to retire from acting. Before his family publicly shared his diagnosis in 2023, they revealed in March 2022 that he had to step away from Hollywood because he was experiencing a disorder called aphasia.
