Dementia is a collection of symptoms that you can experience when living with certain diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s. When you are diagnosed with dementia, this means that there are abnormal changes happening in the brain, which can trigger a decline in cognitive skills. These symptoms are often mild in the early stages, but they can progress and eventually interfere with everyday life.
Research shows that dementia is caused by abnormal buildups of protein in the brain, but there are various factors that can trigger this. With the rise in substance use and dementia cases, some people are asking if the two could be related, at least in some individuals. After all, it’s well-known that the chronic use of alcohol and some medications can raise the risk for cognitive impairment.
Let’s learn more about substance use in relation to dementia and how it can affect the brain.
Alcohol and Dementia
Researchers have found that people who drink heavily or engage in binge drinking are more likely to develop dementia than those who drink moderately or not at all. One reason for this is that alcohol robs the body of essential nutrients. For instance, chronic alcohol use can deplete thiamine (B1), causing a deficiency, which can then lead to brain damage. A thiamine deficiency can be serious, causing poor memory, fatigue and sleep problems.
Additionally, chronic alcohol use is associated with vascular-related conditions, such as high blood pressure and heart failure, which also raise the risk for dementia. Long-term research shows that people who have high blood pressure in mid-life (40-64 years old) are more likely to develop dementia in later life.
Substance Use and Dementia
Illicit drugs can affect mental state and cognitive function, potentially raising the risk for dementia. At this time, we know that drug use alters cognitive abilities, such as decision making and inhibition, and can also deteriorate white matter in the brain. However, most illicit drugs have not been studied enough to know whether or not they cause dementia.
Even the research surrounding cannabis use is inconclusive. Some studies show that long-term cannabis use or cannabis use in early life may increase the risk of developing dementia due to hippocampal atrophy and poorer cognitive function. These are known risk factors for dementia. However, other studies show that cannabis may actually treat dementia.
Prescription Drugs and Dementia
Even some licit drugs can raise the risk for developing dementia, such as anticholinergics (antidepressants, antipsychotics and some bladder control medications) and benzodiazepines. However, it’s difficult to say that these medications actually cause dementia. Instead, they are linked to a heightened risk of dementia. For this reason, doctors try not to use these medications in seniors when possible.
If you or a loved one must take a medication that is linked to dementia, share your concerns with your doctor. It’s possible that there’s an alternative, or your doctor may be able to lower your dose.
Can Dementia Lead to Substance Use?
While substance use can harm the brain, there is little evidence to show that dementia can lead to substance use. However, there is evidence that shows that people with dementia may be prescribed drugs inappropriately. For instance, individuals with dementia often have underlying conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and heart disease. These individuals may show psychological symptoms like depression, anxiety or sleep disorders as well.
Being prescribed a number of medications can cause adverse effects, including substance use, impulsivity and inappropriate behaviors. Alcohol is the most widely used substance by older adults, followed by prescription drugs. An older adult who is experiencing sleep problems or depression as a result of cognitive changes may turn to alcohol to self-medicate. However, this does not mean that dementia is directly related to substance use.
Treating Substance Use Disorders in Santa Rosa, CA
Quitting drug or alcohol use is one of the best decisions you can make for your life—possibly even the best one. Not only do you get to reclaim your life, improve your relationships and feel better, but also you get to return your brain to a healthy state. Plus, the healthy lifestyle you create will also improve brain health. You’ll be sleeping better, eating better and exercising, reducing the risk for hypertension, diabetes and other related conditions.
Pura Vida Recovery is here to help you achieve sobriety. Our drug and alcohol rehab uses evidence-based therapies, family support, recreational therapies and medication management to treat substance use disorders. We also have other programs that can help make the transition to everyday living easier, such as education, career development and sober living. Contact us today to learn more about starting your journey and giving yourself the best chances for a long, healthy life!
