Etiology of Vascular Dementia
My friend was recently diagnosed with vascular dementia after a hospital check-up. However, his health condition was quite good before. I would like to ask what are the causes of vascular dementia?
Doctor's answer (1)
The main causes of vascular dementia include the following aspects:
1. Vascular factors: Long-standing chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia can lead to vascular damage and subsequently trigger vascular dementia. Hypertension and diabetes, in particular, increase the risk of cerebrovascular disease by affecting vascular structure and function.
2. Cerebrovascular disease: Conditions such as cerebral infarction, cerebral hemorrhage, leukoaraiosis, and chronic cerebral ischemia can directly lead to cerebral tissue ischemia and hypoxia, damaging brain regions associated with memory and cognitive function, thereby causing dementia.
3. Genetic factors: Although vascular dementia is not as strongly influenced by genetic factors as Alzheimer's disease, genetic predisposition may increase the risk of developing the condition.
4. Other factors: Conditions such as heart disease, smoking, advanced age, and low educational level are also important risk factors for vascular dementia. These factors may indirectly contribute to the development of dementia by affecting vascular health, blood circulation, or the normal functioning of the nervous system.
