Alcohol and other drug abuse can lead to dementia-like symptoms including such as memory loss and impaired judgement.
Treatment: Abstaining from substance abuse, nutritional therapy, and addressing other medical issues caused by substance abuse can reduce the symptoms.
Risk Factors: Heavy alcohol use, abuse of prescribed drugs such as benzodiazepines, and illicit drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamine can lead to alcohol and drug-related dementia. Synthetic drugs such as spice or k2 may lead to symptoms as well.
Prognosis: If caught early enough, alcohol and drug-related dementia may be reversible as long as the affected individual can abstain from drug and alcohol use. Otherwise, the disease can become permanent.

Check back next week to learn about Korsakoff Syndrome!
If you or someone you know is struggling with or suspected to have dementia, please reach out. You can click the "Request an Appointment" button or call (504) 356-1469.
Comments