Overview

Vascular dementia is a common type of dementia that happens when there’s decreased blood flow to areas of your brain. The resulting lack of oxygen and nutrients damages brain tissue. This leads to a decline in mental (cognitive) functions that’s severe enough to interfere with daily living. Several conditions can contribute to a lack of blood flow, including stroke.

Vascular dementia is among the most common causes of dementia in people over 65 in North America and Europe. Researchers estimate that 5% to 10% of people with dementia have just vascular dementia. But vascular dementia is more commonly present with Alzheimer’s disease. Providers call this mixed dementia (when you have more than one cause of dementia).

Healthcare providers may use the term “vascular cognitive impairment” (VCI) instead of “vascular dementia.” This is because it represents the wide range of severity in thinking changes that can result from vascular damage — from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to dementia.

Receiving a dementia diagnosis can turn your life upside down. You and your loved ones may worry about what lies ahead. Vascular dementia affects each person differently, so lean on your healthcare team to guide you through the journey and what to expect.

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.
The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:
  • High blood pressure.
  • Diabetes.
  • Heart failure.
  • Some types of heart valve disease.
Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:
  • Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
  • Don't smoke or use tobacco.
  • Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
  • Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
  • Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Reduce and manage stress.


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