What is "lao nian nao" (senile brain)? Is it dangerous?

Aug 03, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, "senile brain" refers to brain atrophy, and its severity depends on the stage. Brain atrophy is a condition in which brain tissue undergoes organic lesions leading to shrinkage, caused by various factors. It may result from aging, genetics, trauma, or other causes. Patients may experience symptoms such as cognitive impairment, changes in personality and behavior, and rigid daily routines.

Generally speaking, "senile brain" refers to brain atrophy. Whether it is dangerous depends on the stage of progression. The specific analysis is as follows:

I. Brain Atrophy

Brain atrophy is a condition in which brain tissue undergoes organic pathological changes due to various causes, leading to shrinkage. It may result from aging, genetic factors, trauma, and other causes. Patients may experience symptoms such as cognitive impairment, changes in personality and behavior, and rigid daily habits.

II. Risk Assessment

1. Not Dangerous

With increasing age, some neurons gradually degenerate and die, resulting in reduced brain tissue. At the same time, cerebrovascular function may change with age, potentially reducing blood supply and affecting nutrient delivery to the brain, thereby causing a certain degree of brain atrophy. If brain atrophy is in the early stage, it usually does not cause noticeable symptoms and therefore is not considered dangerous.

2. Dangerous

If brain atrophy progresses to the middle or late stages, it may affect various regions and functions of the brain, leading to damage and death of brain nerve cells. This can cause symptoms such as muscle weakness, coordination difficulties, sensory abnormalities, tremors, unsteady gait, and language impairments, significantly affecting the patient's daily life. Therefore, it is considered dangerous.

If brain atrophy is diagnosed, patients are advised to follow medical guidance for treatment with medications such as oxiracetam injection or aniracetam capsules, and to maintain regular sleep patterns and lifestyle habits.