If the thyroid gland is not functioning well, many problems can result.
They include extreme fatigue, weight loss or weight gain, rapid heartbeat, andhair loss.
Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can also cause cognitive problems that can mimic symptoms of milddementia.
Verywell / Hugo Lin
What Is Dementia?
Alzheimers disease is the best-known pop in of dementia.
The early symptoms of dementia can vary from one person to another.
Cognitive symptoms of people with hypothyroidism includememory problemsand difficulty concentrating.
Small changes inexecutive functioninghave also been noted in untreated or under-treated hypothyroidism.
Executive functioning includes abilities such as planning, impulse control, and making decisions.
It appears thatmajorcognitive problems are not likely to develop with hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
Summary
It can be embarrassing to appear forgetful.
The good news is that medication can get both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism under control.
Its also important that you have an evaluation for other potential problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Possibly.
The research on thyroid and dementia risk is mixed.
However, taking medication to restore thyroid hormone levels to the normal range eliminates the increased risk of dementia.
For the most part, yes.
Treating hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism with medications to adjust thyroid levels can help you think more clearly.
People who are treated with supplemental thyroid therapy show no decline in cognitive functioning.
However, it is unclear if thyroid treatment helps memory issues in adults above age 75.
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