Alzheimer’s disease and other commons types of dementia are irreversible diseases. However, when symptoms of dementia are caused by depression, adverse effects of drugs, drug or alcohol abuse, space-occupying lesions, hormone imbalances or vitamin B-12 deficiency, the dementia may be reversible.
These symptoms are not always sufficiently severe to fulfill the clinical criteria of dementia, yet cause dementia-like behaviors. In fact, many of the disorders that are reported as ‘reversible dementias’ are conditions that may be connected to cognitive or behavioral symptoms.
While the cause of the condition may be treatable, it should not be assumed that the dementia itself is fully reversible. This is why it is very important to seek out an early diagnosis. As soon as you, a loved one or friend notices signs or symptoms of dementia, you should seek medical examination. For more information on signs and symptoms, click HERE.
The earlier you are able to determine the cause of the dementia or dementia-like symptoms, the earlier you can find out what type of treatment is best for you as well as the specific type of dementia you may have. This will also help determine whether or not the dementia is reversible.
Determining your diagnosis will help guide what interventions might be available. A treatment plan can be developed involving nursing, social work, medications, therapy, and/or palliative medical interventions. There are several options to explore and professionals can help you figure out what type of care and intervention is best for you or your loved one.
For more information regarding types of reversible dementia, contact the Alzheimer’s Association at 800.272.3900 or visit alz.org/dayton. We are here for you, day or night.
Resources:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3038529/
http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases_conditions/hic_Types_of_Dementia
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