FTD differs from Alzheimer’s and other dementias that usually occur with old age. Finger, an associate professor in clinical neurological sciences at Western University, spoke to National Post’s Sharon Kirkey about the disorder afflicting Willis, and explained what it is — and isn’t.It’s not one, but a collection of disorders. It’s considered the second-most common early onset neurodegenerative dementia.
Just as the name indicates, FTD tends to be most severe in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. It can start on one side, or the other, but, over time, the disease tends to affect both sides of the brain. Parts of the brain shrink, or atrophy.Article content Some of the most common symptoms with the behavioural type of FTD include disinhibition and apathy, sometimes new repetitive, compulsive behaviours. One woman in her 50s became so compulsive about drinking water, her family had to shut off the valves to the taps. “She was drinking so much water she was going to cause trouble with her own sodium level,” Finger said. A man in his early 40s, a successful fast-food franchise owner who was once sociable and competent, became selfish and neglectful.