Vascular Dementia

Key Points

Overview

Vascular dementia is a common form of dementia resulting from reduced blood flow to the brain. This lack of blood damages brain cells, leading to problems with mental abilities. It's estimated to affect around 180,000 people in the UK and is rare in those under 65. The condition typically worsens over time, but treatment can sometimes help slow its progression. While there's no cure or way to reverse existing brain cell loss, management focuses on addressing underlying causes to reduce further damage.

Signs and Symptoms

• Slowness of thought
• Difficulty with planning and understanding
• Problems with concentration
• Changes to mood, personality, or behavior
• Feeling disoriented and confused
• Difficulty walking and keeping balance
• Memory and language problems (can overlap with Alzheimer's)

Things That Increase the Risk

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• History of strokes or mini strokes (TIAs)
• Smoking
• Being overweight
• Age, especially over 65

Diagnosis

• Assessment of symptoms
• Review of full medical history
• Tests of mental abilities
• Brain scans (MRI or CT scan)
• Referral to a memory clinic or specialist

Treatment & Management

• Eating a healthy, balanced diet
• Weight loss if overweight
• Stopping smoking
• Getting regular physical activity
• Reducing alcohol intake
• Medications for high blood pressure, cholesterol, or blood clots
• Physiotherapy
• Occupational therapy
• Psychological therapies

Prevention

• Maintain healthy blood pressure levels
• Effectively manage diabetes
• Avoid smoking
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat a balanced and nutritious diet
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Engage in regular physical activity

Related Diseases

• Alzheimer's disease
• Stroke
• Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
• Diabetes
• Atherosclerosis

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Vascular Dementia: