Alzheimer’s disease is an old age disease that significantly affects memory. It also causes mood and behavior changes, and the symptoms progress with time.
However, it is not the only reason that can make your memory weak. There are various factors like old age, vascular disorders, vitamin deficiencies etc. that can harm your memory. We are going to discuss some memory problems that might look like Alzheimer’s disease but actually are not.
12 – Depression can Seem Like It
Depression causes memory problems, mood changes, and changes in social behavior. These symptoms somehow match with Alzheimer’s disease. People having depression in older age can be mistaken to have Alzheimer’s. A proper assessment by a doctor is required to reach a diagnosis.
11 – Small Memory Issues are Normal
As you age, your memory also declines as a part of aging, just like the function of other organs of your body. It is okay if you forget some small things. It does not mean you have Alzheimer’s disease. It is a normal part of aging.
10 – It can be Sepsis!
Sepsis is when an infection spreads to your blood. It can happen following a urinary tract infection (UTI) or pneumonia. In old age, there is a higher chance of sepsis due to weaker immunity. It also causes memory issues and confusion, and it should not be confused with Alzheimer’s disease. This condition needs immediate medical attention.
9 – There can be Thyroid Problems
An underactive thyroid is quite problematic. It can cause many problems, such as weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, and depression. It can also affect your memory. So, consider this option too when you face memory issues.
8 – It can be Due to Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia is a condition where small vascular accidents occur again and again and affect different parts of the brain. They are associated with memory issues, concentration, and behavioral problems. This is why it might seem to be Alzheimer’s disease.
7 – Stroke can be the Reason
Stroke causes damage to the brain. This damage can involve different brain areas leading to body weakness. However, body weakness is not the only symptom. The patient can become irritable, confused, and can show a weak memory.
6 – Hypoglycemia is also a Possible Cause
If you have diabetes and using insulin, then this can be a significant reason for memory impairment. Insulin overdose can lead to hypoglycemia i.e. low blood glucose level. Your brain needs a constant supply of glucose to function properly. In the case of hypoglycemia, the person becomes confused with impaired memory. Be careful! It can even lead to a coma.
5 – Vitamin B12 Deficiency Can Affect Memory
Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin for healthy nerves and brain. Its deficiency not only causes tingling and numbness in the hands and feet but also leads to memory impairment. It can be reversed by giving vitamin B12.
4 – It can be a Drug Side Effect
Your Alzheimer’s disease-like symptoms can also be due to some drugs. Many medications can produce similar symptoms. They include anti-nausea drugs, anti-histamine, steroids and bladder relaxants. They can cause confusion and memory problems. The chances are higher in older people.
3 – Sleep Problems Can Cause Similar Symptoms
Six to eight hours of sound sleep are necessary for the brain to function properly. When you do not get enough sleep, you start forgetting things, and you also become confused. The only solution is to sleep properly. If you are facing a problem falling asleep, then see your doctor.
2 – It might be a Brain Tumor
A brain tumor can involve any part of your brain. It causes serious memory impairment when it affects the temporal lobe of the brain. The patient can also have headaches, confusion, and other symptoms related to the involved area.
1 – Lyme Disease should be Considered
Lyme disease is a tick-borne infection that also affects the brain. The patient becomes confused and cannot think clearly. There are also memory problems.
