Vascular Dementia

Vascular dementia is cognitive impairment resulting from cerebrovascular disease (multiple infarcts, strategic single-infarct, small-vessel disease, hypoperfusion). It is the second most common dementia after Alzheimer disease. Clinical: stepwise decline, focal neurologic signs, gait instability, urinary symptoms, mood lability, and cardiovascular risk factors. Treatment: control vascular risk (BP/diabetes/lipids), antiplatelet/anticoagulant, cognitive rehab, and caregiver support.

Common Symptoms

Stepwise cognitive decline; focal neurologic signs; gait disturbance; mood lability; urinary urgency; vascular risk factors

Causes and Pathogenesis

Cerebral infarcts/small-vessel ischemic disease disrupt cognitive circuits; often mixed with Alzheimer pathology.

Treatment

Control BP/diabetes/lipids; antiplatelet/anticoagulant; cognitive rehab; cholinesterase inhibitors; manage mood

Preventive Measures

Control vascular risk factors; antiplatelet; treat atrial fibrillation; healthy lifestyle.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Neurology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.