Common Causes of Reversible Dementias
Alzheimer’s may be the most common type of dementia, but there are many other forms of it. Some dementias are even reversible with the proper medical care. While the individual is recovering, specialized dementia care can help families meet their loved one’s needs. Reversible dementias and dementia-like symptoms can be caused by the following health issues.
Dehydration
Sudden changes in a loved one can be alarming, but in some cases, temporary, dementia-like symptoms may simply be the result of dehydration. A person’s awareness of thirst declines with age. This means that seniors are at a higher risk of dehydration, which can cause confusion.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Individuals who suffer severe malnutrition may develop reversible, dementia-like symptoms. Memory loss and confusion may be attributed to deficiencies in vitamin B1 and B12. People with alcohol use disorder are at an increased risk of this complication, as alcoholism has a strong association with chronic malnutrition. Alcoholism treatment and mental health counseling may be appropriate.
Medication Reactions
If memory loss and problems with word recall developed after a change in medications, it is possible that this change is responsible for these dementia-like symptoms. Some medications that can cause cognitive issues include the following:
- Cholesterol-lowering statins
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Pain medications
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Sleeping pills
Of course, it is important for individuals to take medications as prescribed. However, any troublesome side effects should be brought to the doctor’s attention. The doctor may be able to adjust the dosage or prescribe a different medication to reverse the dementia-like symptoms.
Anoxia
Anoxia or hypoxia is a state of oxygen deprivation. When the organs are not receiving enough oxygen, the person may experience problems such as memory loss and confusion. Oxygen deprivation may be a temporary problem caused by a heart attack, carbon monoxide poisoning or severe asthma.
Avalon Memory Care offers a unique approach to Alzheimer’s care. Although we usually care for residents who require long-term dementia nursing care plans in Arlington, Irving or Houston, we do also provide services for individuals with reversible dementias. If your family is looking for compassionate support services, call us today at (214) 752-7050.
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