Reversable Dementia's

Reversible Dementias

Deteriorating intellectual capacity may be caused by a variety of diseases and disorders in older persons. An illness and/or a reaction to medication may cause a change in mental status. These are sometimes called “pseudodementias.” Detecting the underlying cause of changes through medical evaluation may lead to a determination that the cause is reversible or treatable. Examples of conditions that can cause reversible symptoms of dementia include:

• Reactions to medications. Adverse drug reactions are one of the most common reasons older persons experience symptoms that mimic dementia. All medications, prescriptions, over-the-counter pills and herbal remedies should be monitored by a physician to reduce the possibility of side effects.
• Endocrine abnormalities. The conditions of low or high thyroid levels, parathyroid disturbances or adrenal abnormalities can cause confusion that mimics dementia.
• Metabolic disturbances. Confusion or appetite, sleep and emotional changes can be caused by medical conditions including renal and liver failure, electrolyte imbalances (blood chemistry levels), hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), hypercalcemia (high calcium), and diseases of the liver and pancreas.
• Emotional Distress. Depression or major life changes such retirement, divorce or loss of a loved one can affect one’s physical and mental health. A physician should be informed about major stressful life events.
• Vision and Hearing. Undetected problems of vision or hearing may result in inappropriate responses and be misinterpreted. Hearing and eye exams should be performed.
• Infections. Confusion can be a symptom of an infection and needs to be brought to the attention of the physician.
• Nutritional Deficiencies. Deficiencies of B vitamins (folate, niacin, riboflavin and thiamine) can produce cognitive impairment.

If you or your loved one are having difficulties with memory it is best that you consult your doctor and not self diagnose. I wanted to list these as possible causes.