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The Dementia Series: Dementia-Like Diseases

Writer's picture: Allan Rowe, LCSWAllan Rowe, LCSW

Several medical issues can cause an individual to present with symptoms resembling dementia. These symptoms are usually not as progressive as they are in other cases of dementia. In fact, the symptoms these dementia-like diseases can be cleared up by treating the underlying issue.


Delirium: Delirium causes symptoms of dementia such as confusion, drowsiness, and hallucinations. These symptoms appear suddenly as a result of a medical condition or substance use. It is usually temporary and treatable.


Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTIs can cause dementia-like symptoms including hallucinations. When the UTI is cleared, the mental state usually returns to normal.


Pseudodementia: Dementia-like symptoms may set in as a result of a psychiatric condition such as depression.


Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI): MCIs present as very mild forms of dementia including memory loss and confusion. MCI does not meet the criteria for dementia as these symptoms do not interfere with daily functioning to a significant degree. One third of individuals with an MCI will improve, one-third will stay the same, and one-third will progress into dementia.


An elderly man visits with his doctor.
When signs such as confusion and memory loss occur, visiting your doctor to treat any underlying issues may help resolve these symptoms. If it is dementia, early intervention is always best.

This is the last planned article for The Dementia Series! Thanks for reading along and feel free to reach out to learn more.


If you or someone you know is struggling with or suspected to have dementia, please reach out. You can click the "Request an Appointment" button or call (504) 356-1469.

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