What should be done about brain atrophy in the elderly?

Generally, brain atrophy in the elderly is usually caused by factors such as aging, chronic insomnia, cerebral arteriosclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. It can be managed through general treatments and medication. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Aging

With advancing age, various organs and systems in the human body undergo degenerative changes, and brain tissue is no exception. The number of neurons gradually decreases, and nerve fibers degenerate over time, leading to a reduction in brain volume and resulting in brain atrophy. A balanced diet can help nourish the brain's nervous system.

2. Chronic Insomnia

Long-term insomnia prevents the brain from obtaining adequate rest and recovery, thereby affecting the normal metabolism and function of brain cells. Over time, this leads to neuronal damage and gradual brain tissue atrophy. Relaxation techniques such as soaking feet before bedtime, meditation, or taking a walk may help promote physical and mental relaxation.

3. Cerebral Arteriosclerosis

Prolonged high blood pressure can lead to ischemia, hypoxia, and necrosis of brain tissue, causing neuronal injury and death, which in turn results in brain atrophy. Symptoms may include headaches and dizziness. It is important to strictly limit alcohol consumption. Under a doctor’s guidance, medications such as amlodipine and atorvastatin calcium tablets, lovastatin capsules, or enteric-coated aspirin tablets may be used for treatment.

4. Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease is associated with genetic and environmental factors and causes neuronal dysfunction and death, leading to brain atrophy. Symptoms may include memory loss and irritability. Consuming nutrient-rich foods that support nerve health and promote neuronal recovery is beneficial. Additionally, under medical supervision, medications such as donepezil hydrochloride tablets, rivastigmine tartrate capsules, or huperzine A tablets may be prescribed.

5. Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease is typically caused by significant degeneration and loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and degeneration of the nigrostriatal dopaminergic pathway. Prolonged neuronal loss and functional impairment eventually lead to brain atrophy, often accompanied by symptoms such as bradykinesia (slowness of movement). Maintaining a positive mindset is important, and under a doctor’s guidance, medications such as levodopa tablets, pramipexole hydrochloride tablets, or ropinirole hydrochloride tablets may be used for treatment.

In daily life, it is important to ensure sufficient sleep, maintain a balanced diet to nourish nerves, actively control high blood pressure, maintain a positive mindset, and engage in moderate mental and physical activities.