How to Treat Dementia Caused by Substance Abuse
Excessive alcohol and drug abuse can sometimes lead to dementia. Often referred to as alcohol dementia, dementia caused by substance abuse is similar to general dementia. The symptoms include memory loss, language issues, impaired judgment and personality changes. If caught in its early stages, this dementia can be effectively treated, oftentimes completely eradicating its effects on the body. If left untreated for long periods of time, the dementia may be permanent. As a result, it's imperative to act quickly to treat dementia caused by substance abuse.
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Instructions
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Stop drinking and using drugs. If you continue to abuse substances, you will worsen your substance abuse dementia. You can't merely cut back on consumption. You must completely stop using drugs and alcohol in order to reverse the dementia's effects on your body.
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Join a support group. Most often, it is too difficult to stop using alcohol and drugs on your own. Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous, can provide necessary guidance and support to help you quit your addiction. You can join a local group to aid you in your journey to recovery.
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Start a healthy diet. Alcohol and drugs leach vital vitamins from your body, thereby exacerbating your dementia. Consume a healthy diet, rich in vitamins and nutrients, to help replenish these lost vitamins. Try to eat fresh, natural foods that are free of added chemicals, sodium and sugar.
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Take thiamine supplements. Thiamine is a B-complex vitamin which aids in cognitive functions. Alcoholics and drug addicts often have thiamine deficiencies, leading to reduced brain functionality. By taking 1.4 mg of thiamine daily, you may be able to reverse the impaired functionality that substance abuse dementia caused.
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Talk to your doctor about Memantine. This drug is used to treat the symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease; however, it has been used to treat dementia related to substance abuse. Your doctor may prescribe 30 mg daily in order to improve your brain functionality and memory.
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Tips & Warnings
Discuss your substance abuse dementia with your doctor. Talk to your family and friends about your condition. You need support to help you in the recovery process.
Never take any medications without first discussing them with your doctor.
