If you have ever wondered what Alzheimer’s is and why dementia is often associated with it, then this article will help you understand both concepts. In addition, both terms are linked to memory loss.

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and Dementia

AD is a continuous neurodegenerative condition resulting in episodic memory impairment. On the other hand, dementia is a term associated with symptoms that affect memory, conduct of everyday duties, and communication capacity. Alzheimer’s symptoms are examples of dementia. Types of dementia include:

Vascular Dementia

It is characterized by a decline in thinking skills due to insufficient oxygen supply to the brain. The cognitive problem may start slowly and then worsen due to strokes.

Frontotemporal Dementia

It is marked by a series of disorders caused by continuous nerve cell loss in the cerebrum’s frontal or temporal lobes. It often leads to noticeable changes in a person’s behavior and motor function.

Lewy Body Dementia

It results in the deterioration of one’s thinking capacity and is caused by abnormal microscopic deposits that affect the brain. It is also called Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB).

Causes of Mild Cognitive Impairment

1. Medications

Not all memory impairment conditions are Alzheimer’s symptoms, some like mild cognitive impairment are short term and occur due to certain factors; for example, some medications have memory loss side effects that wear off after you are done with dosage.

2. Minor Head Trauma or Injury

If you accidentally hit your head on something hard, you are more likely to suffer periodic memory problems. The healing process may differ from person to person and obtaining professional advice is highly suggested.

3. Emotional Disorders

Stress, depression, anger, and anxiety can also cause memory loss. The memory loss treatment for this condition is controlling your emotions and thoughts. Finding natural ways to manage your thoughts and emotions will help to improve your overall health.

4. Alcohol

If you drink alcohol beyond a certain extent, your cognitive awareness goes down and you might not remember what happened the next day. Therefore, avoid excessive consumption of alcohol.

5. Vitamin B-12 Deficiency

If your vitamin B-12 levels are low, your body will have trouble circulating blood to your brain. The memory loss treatment involves testing and analysis and creating a custom solution for your healing journey.

6. Hypothyroidism

This condition is caused by low levels of thyroid hormone in your body. In most cases, there may be a problem with your thyroid gland. Medications can help cure the cognitive issues.

7. Brain Diseases

Diseases that affect the brain lead to some form of cognitive impairment. Fortunately, there are medications for most conditions and the memory problem is temporary.

Importance of a Diagnosis

The best way to protect yourself from cognitive disorders is to see a physician and tell them about your symptoms. From there, they can give you a proper diagnosis and prescribe the proper medication.

Naturopathic Doctor’s Visit

If you visit a naturopathic doctor for alternative treatment, be prepared to answer the following questions: What is your medical history? What are your expectations for the treatment?