Too Much Alcohol Can Cause Similar Effects to Dementia -- and the Two Are Often Confused

Alcohol-related brain damage (ARBD) can impair memory, thinking, planning, and reasoning, and lead to changes in personality and behavior that are often mistaken for dementia symptoms, reports The Conversation , There is little awareness of ARBD among the general public as well as clinical specialists. Initial ARBD indicators include impulsive behavior, problems in planning and decision-making, and difficulties in forming and retaining new memories. False or distorted "memories" can be another symptom. Research suggests that as much as 24 percent of all dementia cases are really ARBD, but those with ARBD have the potential to partially recover. This makes it critical to differentiate ARBD from dementia by considering drinking history and observing any signs of improvement or stabilization. To keep alcohol consumption under control, the World Health Organization recommends maintaining a routine as much as possible and concentrating on the things that can be controlled. Time spent drinking alcohol could instead be devoted to physical activity, which boosts the immune system and benefits mental health.