Dementia is a general word used to describe a decline in memory and other executive functions that is so severe that it affects a person's ability to carry out daily tasks. There are already 47 million dementia sufferers worldwide, and by 2050, that figure is projected to triple.1 It is the fifth leading cause of death in the world.2 The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease and this is said to account for 70 percent of dementia cases.3 Other common causes of dementia include frontotemporal dementia (FTD), vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia (DLB), Parkinson’s disease (PDD) and Huntington’s disease. Dementia occurs in some people as we age and this is usually around 65 years of age or older.4 An early diagnosis is beneficial. If you believe that you have symptoms of dementia, it is important to see a doctor so you can receive the correct treatment.
The symptoms of dementia may vary among individuals which can include:
However, the symptoms of dementia can also vary depending on the type of dementia. For example, if you have alcohol related dementia your symptoms may include:
As the name implies, alcohol-related dementia is a type of dementia linked to excessive drinking. According to studies, people who drink heavily or binge (which is when they consume a lot of alcohol quickly) are more likely to get Alzheimer's or another type of dementia than people who drink moderately.5-6 This is due to the damage that years of excessive alcohol consumption can do to their brains. The symptoms of alcohol-related dementia can vary from person to person. Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome sometimes referred to as wet brain, is another type of alcohol related dementia that is characterised by short-term memory loss and thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency.
About 10% of cases of young onset dementia are caused by alcohol-related brain damage, which tends to be more prevalent in persons in their 40s and 50s.5 Due to hormonal changes, differences in body fat composition, and differences in height to weight ratios, middle-aged women are more susceptible to the harmful effects of alcohol.5
Alcohol is thought to mimic the effects of GABA by attaching to GABA receptors and preventing neuronal signaling in the brain. Alcohol releases other inhibitors such as dopamine and serotonin,7 which are involved in cognitive functions such as memory formation and learning. Alcohol “depresses” or “suppresses” the function of neurons, which has an effect on the central nervous system by reducing the ability of neurons to transmit or "fire" electrical impulses.The information carried by these electrical impulses is crucial for maintaining healthy brain function.7
Persistent alcohol misuse and binge drinking do not result in brain cells actually dying. Instead, alcohol impairs neural transmission and harms the dendrites in the cerebellum. 8Researchers found that drinking alcohol can change the structure of neurons in addition to interfering with their ability to communicate 8 but it does not kill off cells.
A good first step is to visit a doctor if you have concerns about your drinking. In addition, there are also many charities and helplines to contact if you are concerned about you’re drinking.
People who drink heavily or binge are more likely to get Alzheimer's or another type of dementia. Alcohol consumption in moderation hasn't been definitively connected to an increased risk of dementia, nor has it been demonstrated to provide much protection from getting dementia. An excellent first step is to visit a GP if you have concerns about your drinking or the drinking of someone else. They can talk about the various services and therapies. There are also several helplines which are available to talk to.
