More than 7 million people in America are currently living with dementia based on recent reports from the medical sector. That number is expected to surge to 9 million by decade’s end and continue to increase from there. Researchers have discovered more than 200 types of dementia at this point, and they continue to find new ones. These conditions of vascular dementia largely have similar effects on their victims; in most cases, their causes are what set them apart.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most widely known form of dementia. It’s characterized by the buildup of specific types of proteins in the brain. Vascular dementia is the second most common. It’s caused by inadequate blood flow to the brain. Though there’s no cure for it, it’s possible to reduce your risk of developing it and mitigate its advancement once it sets in. Read on to learn more about vascular dementia and why early diagnosis is essential for slowing its progression.
What Is Vascular Dementia?
As mentioned, vascular dementia stems from reduced blood flow to the brain. When blood isn’t flowing properly, the brain doesn’t get the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function properly and develop healthy new cells. Several factors can lead to the development of vascular dementia, including high blood pressure, stroke, high cholesterol, diabetes, and blockages in the blood vessels in the brain. Smoking, being overweight, and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of developing vascular dementia as well.
What Are the Warning Signs of Vascular Dementia?
Vascular dementia, like other forms of the condition, generally begins with mild symptoms and progresses over time. At first, the symptoms may barely be noticeable. As the condition worsens, though, they increasingly interfere with everyday life and ultimately become debilitating. These warning signs are similar to those of other types of dementia with memory issues being the most common in the early stages.
People in the earliest stages of vascular dementia may have trouble remembering recent events, forget about doctor’s appointments, and frequently misplace items. They may also have difficulty concentrating and struggle to find their words. They often develop balance and coordination issues as well. In time, those symptoms grow worse. Along the way, people suffering from vascular dementia develop changes in personality and behavior, mood swings, incontinence, declining problem-solving abilities, and difficulty communicating among other issues.
Diagnosing Vascular Dementia
Diagnosing vascular dementia can be difficult because its symptoms overlap with those of other forms of dementia. In fact, people often have co-occurring forms of the condition, which makes isolating vascular dementia even more problematic. Doctors often begin by assessing patients’ risk factors for vascular dementia. They also perform tests to rule out other causes of dementia-like symptoms, including inflammation, certain types of medications, autoimmune disorders, and vitamin deficiencies.
From there, physicians may order brain imaging tests, like CTs and MRIs. Those scans can help doctors pinpoint signs of stroke, protein buildup, damaged brain tissue, and other causes of dementia. Neuropsychological testing is also used to determine whether patients are suffering from dementia and to what extent. Those tests evaluate patients’ reasoning, problem-solving, memory, language, and other abilities. Problems with planning, learning, and making quick decisions are often indicative of vascular dementia.
Early Intervention for Vascular Dementia
Early diagnosis is crucial for those who suffer from vascular’s dementia. It allows them to receive intervention before the symptoms progress and significantly interfere with their lives. If the symptoms are caught early enough, it may be possible to prevent the condition from progressing as quickly and severely as it would otherwise. It also gives them an opportunity to plan for their future needs when the condition does progress.
