Contents
What Really Causes Vascular Dementia?
Published: Jul 12, 2024
Vascular dementia is driven by underlying conditions affecting blood vessels in the brain. Understanding these causes is key to prevention and treatment.
Cerebrovascular and Cardiovascular Diseases
Vascular dementia arises from conditions like ischemic stroke and small vessel disease, which impair blood flow to the brain. These disruptions can lead to brain ischemia, causing cognitive decline. Cardiovascular issues, such as embolism, also contribute significantly.
The Role of Small Vessel Disease
Small vessel disease is a major contributor to vascular dementia, often going unnoticed until brain imaging is done. It involves changes in small arteries and arterioles, leading to brain damage. This condition is more common than previously thought.
Other Contributing Factors
Conditions like cerebral amyloid angiopathy also play a role. This involves the accumulation of proteins in brain vessels, affecting their integrity. Genetic disorders and inflammatory diseases can also lead to small vessel disease, contributing to dementia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases cause it.
It involves changes in small brain vessels, leading to damage.
Yes, genetic disorders can contribute to small vessel disease.
Yes, embolism from the heart can lead to vascular dementia.
Key Takeaways
Knowing the causes of vascular dementia helps in managing and preventing it.
References
- Iadecola C. The pathobiology of vascular dementia. Neuron 2013; 80:844.
- Pantoni L. Cerebral small vessel disease: clinical characteristics and therapeutic challenges. Lancet Neurol 2010; 9:689.
- Revesz T, Holton JL, Lashley T, et al. Genetics of cerebral amyloid angiopathies. Acta Neuropathol 2009; 118:115.
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.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?