8 Conditions Often Confused with Alzheimer’s Disease

There are few diseases more devastating than Alzheimer’s disease, a menacing condition that causes the slow deterioration of brain functionality and ends, inevitably, in death. Far too many people have already watched as their loves ones wither away and perish as a result of this hated disease.
However, it’s not the only condition that affects brain functionality. In fact, Harvard researchers point out that more than 50 conditions can cause or mimic the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. It’s a potentially dangerous mixup that can be avoided by knowing more about these other conditions, so let’s take a look…

1. Several Infections

A number of different types of infection—most of them painful and annoying but rarely fatal—can be confused with Alzheimer’s disease. This includes urinary tract infections, skin infections, and lung infections like pneumonia. 

The problem is that all of these conditions can reduce physical functionality during the day and night, causing the sufferer to feel overwhelmingly exhausted and groggy. In certain circumstances this can lead observers to believe that the individual is suffering from some kind of mental deficiency or a condition like Alzheimer’s disease.

2. Medications

It’s no mystery that many of today’s most popular medications come with some significant side effects. These medications can affect both our mental and physical well-being in both positive and negative ways. Unfortunately, many medications—and particularly those meant to treat mental disorders, such as depression—often come with serious side effects that can make patients appear tired, both mentally and physically.

According to research from Harvard University, that’s why so many people often suspect that individuals taking powerful medications are suffering from some kind of brain disorder, such as Alzheimer’s disease. That’s why it’s important for close family members to be aware of the medications their loved ones are taking.

3. Dehydration

The key to beating the summer heat—aside from staying inside a place that’s air conditioned—is staying hydrated. Experts typically recommend that we drink more water during the hot summer months to ensure we don’t feel run down and unable to perform our normal daily activities.

That’s why dehydration is so often confused with dementia and disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, according to research from the Alzheimer’s Association. Dehydration can significantly reduce normal body functionality and can also negatively affect cognitive functionality. To prevent confusion, drink lots of water, particularly during the long, hot summer.  (Click to Continue)

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8 Conditions Often Confused with Alzheimer’s Disease