Lingering Effects of Past Substance Use
Last year, I went through a brief struggle with substance abuse that lasted about four months, and I continue to face medical challenges as a result. After ceasing the use of synthetic marijuana (K2) and consuming excessive amounts of alcohol, I noticed a dramatic decline in my cognitive skills, especially in reading and writing. While I have nearly regained my capabilities in these areas, I still encounter difficulties from time to time. One issue that concerns me is that my pupils have appeared uneven in size for almost a year. Additionally, I experience near-blindness and significant eye strain. Although wearing glasses has provided some relief, the symptoms return whenever I remove them. At 16 years old, I stand at 178 centimeters and maintain a weight of 50 to 55 kilograms consistently. I am not currently on any medication nor do I have any diagnosed medical conditions.
Answers (1)
3/26/2025, 6:50:33 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s commendable that you recognize your past struggles with substance use and are seeking clarity and help for the lingering effects. Your concerns, especially regarding cognitive skills and eye-related issues, are valid and merit attention.
Main Points:
- Ongoing cognitive challenges and eye symptoms may stem from prior substance use.
- Uneven pupil size, persistent eye strain, and vision issues need thorough assessment.
Explanation: Substance use can affect various aspects of mental and physical health, including cognitive functioning and visual health. While it's good to see improvements in your cognitive abilities, ongoing difficulties can occur, potentially linked to the previous substances used. Uneven pupil size (anisocoria) can have several causes and, in some cases, may relate to past use of substances affecting the nervous system. Your experience of near-blindness and eye strain could be linked to other issues, such as visual strain from prolonged use of screens or an underlying eye condition.
Next Steps:
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Keep a Symptom Journal: Record your cognitive issues and any changes in your vision or eye strain. This can help identify patterns or triggers.
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Limit Screen Time: If you spend a lot of time on devices, take regular breaks to reduce eye strain (the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds).
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Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Proper nutrition and hydration can support recovery; an adequate intake of vitamins (like B12) may help with cognitive functions.
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Eye Protection: Wear sunglasses in bright light and during outdoor activities to protect your eyes, and ensure you have the correct prescription for your glasses.
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Monitor Changes: If your symptoms worsen or do not improve, please seek evaluation from a healthcare professional. They can help rule out serious conditions and provide further support, such as vision therapy.
While these steps can help, openness to professional advice when needed is crucial for your overall health and well-being. Let me know if you need more guidance!
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