Advertisement
question

What is punch drunk syndrome?

Discovery Health
Discovery Health
answer

Punch drunk syndrome, or dementia pugilistica, or boxer's syndrome is also called chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). This condition is common among boxers. It is caused by head trauma and the condition typically develops about 16 years after the initial head injury.

A patient with CTE develops tangles and threads in his or her brain that are similar to those found in the brains of Alzheimer's patients. In its later stages, patients with CTE develop symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

Continue Learning about Dementia

Can stress increase your dementia risk?
Can stress increase your dementia risk?
Nearly 20 percent of American adults experience an anxiety disorder in any given year, such as generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder, accordi...
Read More
5 strategies to keep your brain healthy as you age
5 strategies to keep your brain healthy as you age
Many people notice changes in their memory and thinking as they get older. As a person ages, all parts of the body change, including the brain. The st...
Read More
What are the financial perils of dementia?
What are the financial perils of dementia?
Besides the changes to their physical and emotional health, people with dementia lose their capacity to perform the financial tasks of daily living. ...
Read More
Common medications may be linked to increased dementia risk
Common medications may be linked to increased dementia risk
Anticholinergics are among one of the most common types of drugs prescribed. It’s not known how frequently they’re prescribed; different studies have ...
Read More

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.