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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Can Drug Abuse Affect Degree Of Dementia?

My husband is a 64 year old male 6'1 185 lbs. He has a history of PTSD and chronic long term substance abuse. He was recently diagnosed with major nuerocognitive isorder.. His scan shows a possible lucanar infarct and mild generalized involution of the brain. Also he is a long term substance abuser of opiates and benzodiazepines . He continues to use. What is the best way to find out the degree of dementia? And how will his continued use effect the dementia and it's further onset? Thank you
Mon, 20 Apr 2015
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries

I can understand your concern. He is taking benzodiazepine and opiates and both of these drugs known to result in progression of dementia features. Benzodiazepines increase cognitive impairment which result in worsening of memory loss. He is already having lacunar infarcts on brain and use of opioids may further deteriorate the symptoms. Please ask him to stop use of these both substances.

For degree of demential MMSE or mini mental status examination can be used to find degree of impairment.

His continued use of drugs will cause rapid progression of symptoms.

Thanks, visit a neuropsychiatrist for proper treatment and evaluation.
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Can Drug Abuse Affect Degree Of Dementia?

Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries I can understand your concern. He is taking benzodiazepine and opiates and both of these drugs known to result in progression of dementia features. Benzodiazepines increase cognitive impairment which result in worsening of memory loss. He is already having lacunar infarcts on brain and use of opioids may further deteriorate the symptoms. Please ask him to stop use of these both substances. For degree of demential MMSE or mini mental status examination can be used to find degree of impairment. His continued use of drugs will cause rapid progression of symptoms. Thanks, visit a neuropsychiatrist for proper treatment and evaluation.