There are many causes of dementia, some of which are probably not preventable. On the other hand, dementia that originates from toxic substances—a form of degenerative dementia—is one we may be able to avoid by limiting our exposure to those toxins. Here we will define dementia derived from toxins, explore the causes, symptoms and treatments.
Toxic encephalopathy is a general term that describes any sort of cerebral damage derived from the use or exposure to toxic compounds, chemicals or metals. Though the damage is at times repairable, in cases it is not, and dependent upon the level of exposure, risk for development of degenerative dementia is great.
Exposure to any type of toxic substance with a negative effect on the brain can lead to toxic encephalopathy which can trigger the onset of dementia. The most common forms that can cause damage are:
- Alcohol: In excessive, abusive amounts, alcohol can cause severe cerebral damage.
- Heavy metals: Lead, mercury, aluminum, arsenic, toluene and lithium, even in miniscule doses, can lead to long-term damaging effects on brain, leading to both encephalopathy and dementia.
- Psychotropic drugs: Chronic abuse of these drugs increase the severity of impairment.
- Cydad: A consumable seed in the Western Pacific, when ingested, it can cause several neurodegenerative disorders.
- Carbon Dioxide
Even in small amounts, exposure to these toxic materials, especially over extended periods of time, can cause gradual mental deterioration.
Pinpointing the causes of dementia from toxins can sometimes be difficult to determine, especially when they accumulate over time in small, continual amounts. Symptoms of dementia from toxic substances does not necessarily differ from most forms of degenerative dementia, and long-term exposure symptoms include:
- Memory loss
- Increased irritability
- Minor but noticeable changes in behavior and personality
- Fatigue
- Uncontrolled physical movements
- Difficulty concentrating
- Change in mood, especially the presence of depression
One way to prevent exposure is to be able to identify the short-term signs of toxic ingestion or exposure, which can include:
- A feeling of lightheadedness
- Headache and nausea
- Dizziness
Dependent upon the extent and intensity of the exposure to toxic substances, several treatment methods do exist. Symptoms and physical effects can be managed by adjustments in diet, nutritional supplements, administration of anticonvulsants, and in extreme cases, organ transplants.
Regrettably, most forms of toxic substance-related dementia are completely irreversible and the damage caused by chronic exposure is not something that can be restored. Typically, changes in diet and environment can limit exposure and retard the progression of the disease once onset has occurred. However, managing the symptoms is the primary alternative for positively affecting the disease.
The Perspectives on Diseases and Disorders series offers “Dementia,” a book that provides clear and careful overview on what Dementia is, what causes it, how people live with it and the latest on available treatment and prevention.
Sources: