Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia is the second leading cause of dementia, after Alzheimer Disease. It can also occur with Alzheimer Disease, leading to the diagnosis of “mixed dementia”. Vascular dementia is the result of a single or multiple strokes. A stroke is the main area of damaged brain caused by a loss of blood flow. Strokes can be large or small, and can have a cumulative effect (each stroke adding further to the problem). Strokes may alter the person’s ability to walk, cause weakness in an arm or leg, slurred speech or emotional outbursts. Mini-strokes (sometimes referred to as transient ischemic attacks – TIAS) are warning signs that a stroke may be imminent. Temporary loss of vision, speech, strength or brief episodes of numbness may indicate a TIA.
What are the symptoms?
Unlike Alzheimer Disease where symptoms appear gradually, vascular dementia appears suddenly, immediately following a stroke. It may follow a stepwise progression – functioning can deteriorate, stabilize for a time and then deteriorate again. Cognitive symptoms of vascular dementia may vary, depending on the area of the brain affected (e.g. language, vision, or memory).
Who does Vascular Dementia affect?
Both men and women can be affected by Vascular Dementia.
What are the risk factors?
Risk factors for vascular dementia include: age (over 65), high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes. Smoking, being overweight, having elevated cholesterol levels and a family history of heart problems may also increase the risk of stroke, which increases the risk of vascular dementia.
By controlling risk factors, an individual can reduce their risk of having a stroke, thereby reducing risk of developing vascular dementia. Medications can control high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Blood thinners can be used, particularly when the heart beat is irregular. Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes exercising regularly, eating well, avoiding smoking and reducing stress can also reduce risk factors.
Is there treatment?
After a person has a stroke, medication may be prescribed to improve blood flow to the brain and reduce the risk of further stroke. A person may also benefit from different therapies to help with movement and speech, such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy or speech therapy.
For more information please visit the following websites:
The Alzheimer Society of Canada
www.alzheimer.ca
Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada
www.heartandstroke.ca
The information contained on this website is not intended to replace clinical diagnosis by a health professional.
SOURCE: Research - Related Dementia-Vascular Dementia - Alzheimer Society of Canada
|
