Conditions That May Cause Dementia-Like Symptoms

About Nicole Pajer

Nicole Pajer is a Los Angeles-based freelance published in The New York Times, Woman's Day, AARP, Parade, Wired, Glamour, People and more.

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Memory loss, confusion and other dementia-like symptoms can be concerning. While these symptoms can be associated with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, they don’t always mean dementia is the cause.

Medication side effects, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders and other health conditions can cause dementia-like symptoms, and depending on the underlying cause, these symptoms may improve or even resolve with treatment. Dementia, however, is caused by physical changes in the brain and cannot be cured or reversed, though treatment may help manage symptoms and, in some cases, slow progression.

Read on for a look at different conditions that may produce dementia-like symptoms.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

In older adults, urinary tract infections can trigger delirium, which may present as sudden confusion, altered awareness and disorientation. Delirium and dementia can share similar symptoms, which may delay recognition and treatment of the underlying infection and allow the delirium to worsen. Researchers believe UTI-related delirium may be due to temporary brain dysfunction caused by the bladder releasing inflammatory signals into the bloodstream. In people living with Alzheimer's or dementia, a UTI can cause a rapid cognitive decline that can be confused as a sudden worsening of their condition. Symptoms caused by a UTI typically clear up with treatment, which is usually a course of antibiotics.

Vitamin Deficiencies

Certain vitamins and nutrients are important for brain health. Different vitamin deficiencies have been associated with memory loss and cognitive impairment, symptoms that can sometimes resemble those of dementia. Your doctor can check for vitamin deficiencies with blood tests and recommend treatment, such as supplementation, if one is detected. In some cases, these symptoms may improve once the underlying deficiency is identified and treated. But as cognitive symptoms can have many possible causes, you shouldn’t assume you have deficiencies and add any new supplements without consulting your physician.

Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid disorders can also cause dementia-like changes in memory and thinking. The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that produces hormones that help regulate how the body uses energy. When thyroid hormone levels are too low, a condition known as hypothyroidism, body functions slow down. This can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, depression and slower brain function.

Blood Sugar Problems/Diabetes

When your blood sugar levels fall out of the normal range, it can throw your brain off balance. That’s because when blood sugar drops too low, the brain doesn’t receive the glucose it needs to function properly. This can lead to confusion, difficulty concentrating and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness. Blood sugar that is too high can also affect mental functioning and, when severe, lead to confusion or altered awareness. Over time, diabetes may also contribute to diabetes-related cognitive impairment, which can cause symptoms similar to those seen in dementia. These may include difficulties with memory, attention, information processing, reasoning and planning. If you are diabetic and notice new symptoms like confusion, talk to your doctor.

Dehydration and Malnutrition

Malnutrition and dehydration are separate conditions, but each can affect cognitive functioning. Malnutrition may weaken the immune system, contribute to muscle loss and deprive the brain of the vital nutrients it needs to function properly. This may lead to difficulties with concentration, memory and thinking. Dehydration can cause general weakness and reduced cognitive function and is a risk factor for delirium, which may involve confusion, disorientation, difficulty concentrating and hallucinations. While dementia typically presents as a gradual decline, delirium is sudden, with symptoms appearing over a few hours or days. Cognitive symptoms caused by malnutrition or dehydration may improve when the underlying problem is addressed.

Additional Considerations

Medications and mental health can also affect memory and thinking, sometimes producing symptoms that resemble dementia.

Medication Side Effects

Some antihistamines, anti-nausea medications, steroids and bladder relaxants may cause confusion, drowsiness or difficulty concentrating. Older adults may be particularly vulnerable because they are more likely to take multiple medications, increasing the risk of side effects and drug interactions. A healthcare professional or pharmacist can review prescription medications, over-the-counter products and supplements for possible contributors. Medications should not be changed or discontinued without medical guidance.

Depression and Chronic Stress

Depression and chronic stress may also interfere with memory, concentration, decision-making and the ability to complete daily tasks. When the mind and body are under constant stress or mood and energy are low, it may be harder to focus, concentrate on other tasks or absorb and recall information. These symptoms may improve when depression is treated or stress is reduced. However, depression can also occur alongside dementia, so new, persistent or worsening cognitive changes should be evaluated by your healthcare provider.

Healthy Habits for Your Brain

Everyday choices may help support brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. It’s never too early or too late to begin. Here are 10 healthy habits recommended by the Alzheimer’s Association:

Challenge your mind
Stay in school
Engage in regular exercise
Wear a helmet to prevent head injuries
Quit smoking
Control your blood pressure
Manage diabetes
Eat a healthy diet
Maintain a healthy weight
Get good quality sleep

Prioritizing your cognitive health can begin with one small step.

_{The above content is shared for educational and informational purposes only. You must consult your doctor before taking any additional or discontinuing any existing medications or otherwise acting on any content on this website, especially if you have a medical condition. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on our site. If you have concerns about dementia for yourself or a loved one, please consult a healthcare professional.}