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Could Your Blood Pressure Be a Hidden Risk for Dementia?
Published: Jan 18, 2024
High blood pressure is not just bad for your heart—it can also increase your risk of developing dementia. Learn how to manage this risk factor effectively.
The Connection
High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for vascular dementia. It can lead to damage in the blood vessels of the brain, reducing blood flow and causing cognitive decline. Managing blood pressure is crucial to reducing the risk of dementia.
Managing Blood Pressure
Treatment often involves lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, along with medications like antihypertensives. It's important to work with healthcare providers to find a plan that effectively controls blood pressure. Regular monitoring and adjustments may be necessary.
Potential Risks of Treatment
While lowering blood pressure is beneficial, aggressive treatment might lower it too much, potentially reducing brain perfusion. It's important to balance treatment to avoid negative effects while preventing dementia.
Frequently Asked Questions
It damages brain blood vessels, increasing dementia risk.
Through lifestyle changes and medication.
Yes, overly aggressive treatment might reduce brain perfusion.
Consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Yes, regular monitoring ensures effective control.
The Bottom Line
Managing high blood pressure is key to reducing dementia risk, but it requires careful balance.
References
- SPRINT MIND Investigators for the SPRINT Research Group, Nasrallah IM, Pajewski NM, et al. Association of Intensive vs Standard Blood Pressure Control With Cerebral White Matter Lesions. JAMA 2019; 322:524.
- Douiri A, McKevitt C, Emmett ES, et al. Long-term effects of secondary prevention on cognitive function in stroke patients. Circulation 2013; 128:1341.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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