Post-operative cognitive dysfunction
What is post-operative cognitive dysfunction?
A state in which a patient's memory and learning declines after surgery. Post-operative Cognitive Dysfunction is common:
- 1 in 3 patients will have cognitive dysfunction after leaving the hospital.
- 1 in 10 patients will have cognitive dysfunction that lasts up to 3 months after surgery.
Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty with memory and recall.
- Difficulty completing tasks that were previously not difficult.
- Struggles with multitasking.
- Reduced movement and coordination.
- Difficulty following conversations.
- Struggles with understanding speech.
Who does it effect?
Although the exact cause is unknown, some patients, who are 60 years of age or older, are at a higher risk due to pre-existing factors including:
- Health conditions including: diabetes, sleep apnea, cardiovascular diseases, pulmonary diseases, etc.
- Cognitive impairments such as: trouble remembering, concentrating, learning new things, or making decisions.
- Depression, mood disorders, or other psychiatric conditions.
- Sleep deprivation (inadequate quality or quantity of sleep).
- History of alcohol or substance abuse.
- Level of education.
How to reduce the risk of post-operative cognitive dysfunction?
- Try to exercise regularly to stay physically active.
- Maintain good eating habits & ensure proper nutrition
- Regular mental stimulation can help you maintain a healthy mind.
- Take prescribed medication regularly.
- Good management of pre-existing health conditions is important prior to any surgical procedure.
