It looks like Alzheimer's disease … but it may not be the case

Six conditions that can mimic the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease but can

To be generally reversed

People who are confused and easily forget things do not necessarily have symptoms similar to those of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Your memory may be affected by many other health problems.

"With an exam and a few tests, your doctor will be able to eliminate many possible causes and, hopefully, determine what is really happening and what can be done." Blood samples for screening, brain imaging and neurological tests can usually determine health problems and get help, "said operations director Steve Pearl, Northbrook's frontline aides, who serve the north and northwestern suburbs of Northbrook. border of Wisconsin.

Here are some common problems that can often cause symptoms resembling Alzheimer's disease.

Thyroid and liver disorders –

When your thyroid does not work properly or you do not get enough vitamin A for your liver, you may have memory problems. Both conditions must be excluded before worrying about any type of dementia.

Hearing loss –

When your loved one can not hear, he or she can not respond normally to the world around you. Your loved one might not even realize that hearing loss is his problem. Make sure your loved one receives a hearing test to determine if that is the reason for his lack of interest in conversions, lower levels of socialization, strange behaviors or unusual responses to common questions.

Side effects of drugs –

Many seniors take many medications each day. Many medications have side effects that can impact behavior and memory. If your loved one has memory problems, especially when he recently started taking a new prescription, make sure the doctor reviews all the medications that he takes.

Depression –

Depression can lead to memory loss, lack of concentration and disorientation. You can sleep too much or too little, do not want to spend time with your friends and loved ones and you are desperate most of the time. Your loved one might need to talk to someone about his depression.

Brain tumour –

Benign and cancerous brain tumors can lead to memory loss, confusion and many other symptoms. A brain scan can show that a tumor is causing problems, not Alzheimer's. Many tumors are benign, but if they develop or are malignant, it may be necessary to consider surgery.

Infections –

Infections can affect brain function, leading to foggy thoughts, confusion, forgetfulness, and difficulty concentrating. Urinary tract infections are a common cause of cognitive problems in the elderly. Infections are treated with antibiotics and the symptoms often go away with this treatment.

If you are concerned about your health or that of your loved one, please contact your doctor. If you need the help of a caregiver or a personal assistant, even for a short period or for a few hours a week, the primary assistants can help you. For more information, call Steve Pearl at 847-564-7500 or visit www.seniorhelpers.com.

You can also contact Steve Pearl by e-mail at [email protected].

Senior Helpers is the CARES Affiliate Office of the Alzheimer's Foundation of America for the Chicagoland area. This office has created a resource center on Alzheimer's disease, dementia and Parkinson's disease for the community. In the past five years, they have also been ranked among the best home care agencies in America.