Robin Williams Misdiagnosed with Parkinson's Disease

LBD is characterized by a large protein build-up in the brain called alpha-synuclein. These proteins naturally build up, but the reason why is still unclear. When these proteins are clustered, they form Lewy bodies. As more Lewy bodies form, the nerve cells become dysfunctional and eventually die. In the most severe conditions, the brain shrinks causing an array of thinking, movement, and behavioral problems to the patient.

Patients with LBD display problems in staying awake or asleep at night, remembering things and focusing. Because of the lack of sleep, they become confused and frustrated. Others hallucinate and see objects, people, or animals that aren’t actually present in the real world. They may need help when walking as patients could have trouble with stiff muscles in the hands and feet.

As what Robin experienced, people with LBD are in their proper state of mind in some days or hours but suddenly gets confused or anxious later on or the next day. This is due to their varying energy levels that change their ability to focus. LBD patients live an average of 5 to 7 years, although other patients may live shorter or longer.