i am concerned that i have hiv-dementia. I have never yet read anything about its symptoms? How can i tell if i am getting hiv-dementia and how can one distinguish between hiv- versus hiv-med-related dementia, that is, dementia caused by the hiv meds themselves?

HIV-associated dementia inlcudes symptoms like slowed thinking, memory problems, impaired concentration, tremors, gait problems, apathy and social withdrawal.

There are some medicines that can cause memory problems and other cognitive impairments, but usually not all the symptoms seen with HIV-dementia. The most common situation is that early signs of cognitive problems are worsened by adding certain medications. This common with anticholinergic medications (Cogentin, some antidepressants, Benadryl, etc.) or other drugs that are CNS depressants (benzodiazepines, barbiturates, alcohol).