Expert: Paula Damgaard - 10/22/2011

Question
My husband is 57, he was a cocaine abuser for 15 years. He used on the weekends and drank only beer on a daily basis 1-3 weekdays 6-9 weekends for 20 years.  He has had sobriety for 20 months. We lost our oldest son four years ago,he would be 30 this December. We buried his father last November, who had severe Alzheimer his onset was at or around age 69.  Is it possible that the history of drug addiction and ETOH could predispose my husband to an early onset of this disease. My husband uncles have all died with this diagnosis. He refuses to seek medical attention. He has demonstrated some aggressive verberal mannerism, blank faces, no emotions at times. He sometimes can not complete sentences if challenged in a discussion that threating to him. He works daily, and has a very task oriented job, however seems to take longer to complete tasks. He apathic no emotions, difficulty sleeping.  Thank you in advance for your input.

Answer
Dear Bobbie,
Ugh! I am so sorry for all your losses. And then to add this on top truly shows how life is unfair. Unfortunately the answer to your question is yes. And from the sounds of what you describe I would have to say it sounds like your husband is either extremely depressed or beginning dementia now. Depression can be an early sign as well but when it is treated can make the other signs clear up for a while. So getting that treated is essential to giving you and your husband better quality of life now.

I hope it is depression and that your husband will get it treated. Most important take care of yourself!!

All the best,
Paula