Is Vascular Dementia the Hidden Culprit Behind Cognitive Decline?
Published: Jul 10, 2024
Vascular dementia is the second most common form of dementia and is primarily caused by issues with blood flow to the brain. This article explores what vascular dementia is, its causes, and how it differs from other types of dementia.
Contents
Understanding Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia occurs due to cerebrovascular disease or impaired blood flow to the brain, affecting cognitive abilities. It is diagnosed when clinical features and brain imaging confirm vascular brain injury. Unlike other types of dementia, it is not a disease but a syndrome caused by various cerebrovascular conditions.
The Role of Cerebrovascular Disease
Cerebrovascular disease disrupts normal brain function through ischemia or hemorrhage, leading to cognitive impairment. Conditions like small vessel disease play a significant role in vascular dementia. These diseases often remain undetected until brain imaging reveals their presence.
Epidemiology of Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia accounts for 25 to 50 percent of dementia cases and is the second most common form. Pure vascular dementia is less common than mixed dementia, which often includes Alzheimer's pathology. The prevalence increases with age, particularly in those over 65.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a type of dementia caused by reduced blood flow to the brain.
It's the second most common dementia after Alzheimer's.
It's caused by diseases affecting blood vessels in the brain.
Yes, it often coexists with Alzheimer's disease.
Key Takeaways
Understanding the unique aspects of vascular dementia can lead to better management and care.
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References
Wardlaw JM, Smith EE, Biessels GJ. Neuroimaging standards for research into small vessel disease. Lancet Neurol 2013; 12:822.
Smith EE. Clinical presentations and epidemiology of vascular dementia. Clin Sci (Lond) 2017; 131:1059.
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