Neurocognitive Disorders

What are Neurocognitive Disorders?

Neurocognitive disorder (NCD) is a general term for loss of brain function due to a medical condition other than a psychiatric illness. NCD is also known as organic mental disorder (OMS) or organic brain syndrome.

NCD can be caused by a number of factors, including:

• Brain injury, such as a stroke, traumatic brain injury, or brain tumor
• Degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease
• Infections, such as HIV/AIDS, meningitis, and encephalitis
• Metabolic disorders, such as thyroid problems, kidney disease, and liver disease
• Nutritional deficiencies, such as vitamin B12 deficiency
• Substance abuse, such as alcoholism and drug addiction
• Medication side effects, such as those from corticosteroids, sedative-hypnotics, and antidepressants

NCD can manifest in a variety of ways, depending on the underlying cause. Some common symptoms include:

• Memory problems
• Confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Changes in mood
• Changes in personality
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Difficulty walking or balancing
• Vision problems
• Hearing problems
• Sleep problems
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Depression
• Anxiety

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment. There is no cure for NCD, but there are treatments that can help to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.