Other Causes of Dementia

Huntington Disease

Is a neurodegenerative disease with no cure. In the majority of the cases the disease is hereditary (passed down through families).

It affects sufferers in the same ways as dementia with impact on memory, speech, mobility and involuntary processes of the body.

There is no cure, however life expectancy is 10 to 30 years.



Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)

Is very rare but causes rapid dementia and deterioration of the brain. It is a fatal condition which causes brain damage which gradually gets worse over time.



Parkinson’s

Is another condition which has a significant impact on the brain and becomes progressively worse over time.

It is more commonly recognised by involuntary shaking and muscle stiffness.

It is caused by a loss of nerve cells in the brain.

Alcohol Related

Is caused by excessive alcohol consumption over a long period of time.

Evidence shows that alcohol consumption kills brain cells and changes how cells function.

The risk of developing dementia increases significantly the more alcohol is drunk regularly.

It is a contributing factor to young-onset dementia.

HIV Related

HIV-related neurocognitive disorders are associated with HIV and Aids and result in changes in memory, cognition, behaviour and motor function.

HIV related dementia is less common due to the introduction of antiretroviral medications which supress the symptoms of HIV and Aids.

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

Is a neurodegenerative condition caused by a build up of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain.

It is more common in people over 60 but unlike other types of dementia, symptoms appear rapidly over a period of usually months,

There is no known cause for NPH but other brain injuries or illnesses are present prior to developing the condition – such as head trauma, meningitis or haemorrage.

Lifestyle Factors

Lifestyle Factors can have a significant impact on your risk of developing many illnesses and this is true for dementia. The following list of factors are shown to increase your risk of dementia:

  • High Blood Pressure
  • Smoking
  • Excessive Alcohol Consumption
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Mismanagement of diabetes – both type 1 and 2
  • Obesity
  • Depression – usually when left untreated