Neurology, Addiction and Psychiatry Conference

The other common kind of dementia is induced by the reduction in the flow of blood to the brain. This disturbance in the flow of blood occurs, in many cases, as a consequence of a stroke and mini-strokes also known as transient ischemic attacks or TIAs. It can also be caused by various conditions that affect the blood vessels of the brain. This results in deteriorating cognitive functions, such as memory and the ability to reason or solve problems. Vascular dementia tends to occur stepwise, as the cognitive decline associated with each stroke or other vascular event rapidly develops.

The nature of these symptoms will depend on where and how much of the brain is damaged. Some common manifestations include the following: memory loss, confusion, problems concentrating and inability to organize thoughts and actions. In addition, individuals can present with slowing of thought, difficulty planning, and shifts in mood or behavior. Unlike Alzheimer's disease, in vascular dementia, the early signs are problems in making decisions and other serious disturbances in executive functions rather than memories. As the condition worsens, usually, a person becomes unable to perform simple daily functions and loses his independence, requiring care that is much more substantial than that which the person may have required at home.

Vascular dementia is considered one of the main risk factors caused by a history of stroke; people who have experienced a stroke are at a higher risk. Many risk factors include, among others: high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, as all these would affect the general health of one's blood vessels in the brain leading to poor vascular health and therefore potential damage to the blood vessels which supply the brain. As a result, being vital to maintaining good heart health and blood vessels reduces the risk factors for developing vascular dementia.

There is no curative treatment for vascular dementia, though the progression might be slowed by managing the underlying vascular risk factors. Proper control of blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol with medications, and a heart-healthy diet along with lifestyle modifications like regular physical activity, smoking cessation, etc., is very important. Many of these patients will need cognitive therapy and rehabilitation programs to maintain as high a level of independence as possible.

Research is underway to develop better treatments, such as neuroprotective therapies and improved blood flow to the brain. ""Early diagnosis and treatment may have a very promising future in the management of vascular dementia and for improving the quality of life in these patients."".