CTE vs. Dementia: What’s the Difference?
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Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and dementia can look painfully similar — memory loss, confusion, mood swings, and personality shifts — but their causes and progression are not the same. CTE develops from repeated brain trauma, often years after concussions or sub-concussive hits. Dementia, on the other hand, can stem from a wide range of diseases that damage brain cells over time, such as Alzheimer’s.
For families, the overlap can be confusing and heartbreaking. The symptoms blur together, and too often, diagnosis comes late. Understanding these conditions isn’t just medical — it’s personal. Knowing the difference helps caregivers, veterans, and athletes navigate care, protect their loved ones, and find hope in early intervention.