Dementia Cases are on the rise, according to the World Health Organization What states, “Currently, more than 55 million people are living with dementia worldwide and there are nearly 10 million new cases each year,” mainly due to population growth and an aging population. don’t smoke, get enough sleep, exercise 150 minutes a week and staying healthy helps reduce the probability.Although there are non-modifiable risk factors, knowing the causes of dementia is vital to help avoid the disorder that seriously affects cognitive functions. Dr. Tomi Mitchell, a board certified family physician with Holistic Wellness Strategies that shares the common causes of dementia and what you should know about the condition. Read on and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure signs you’ve already had COVID.
Dr. Mitchell explains, “Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability due to illness or injury. Dementia affects memory, thinking, and judgment. A person with dementia may have trouble remembering familiar people, places, or things. They may also have difficulty with complex tasks, such as balancing a checkbook or cooking a meal. Symptoms of dementia can range from mild to severe. In severe cases, a person with dementia may no longer be able to care for themselves. No test can diagnose dementia. Instead, doctors must rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
Dr. Mitchell emphasizes, “Although dementia is most often diagnosed in older adults, it is not an inevitable consequence of aging. Dementia is caused by several factors, including disease, injury, and genetic abnormalities. More than 55 million people live with dementia worldwide and nearly 10 million new cases each year. While there is no cure for dementia, early diagnosis and treatment can often help slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life for those affected. As our population ages, it is essential to raise awareness of dementia and invest in research for better treatments and eventual cures.
Age is the most important risk factor for dementia, and the chances of developing the disease increase as we age. This is because, like many other conditions, our bodies experience the general wear and tear of life as we age. The brain is no exception; The aging process can lead to changes in brain structure and function that contribute to dementia. However, it is essential to remember that age is not the only risk factor for dementia. Other factors, such as family history, lifestyle choices, and health conditions, may also play a role. As such, it is important to be aware of all the risks of dementia. While there is no definitive cause of dementia, several risk factors have been identified.”
Dr. Mitchell says, “As mentioned earlier, age is a risk factor for developing dementia. The vast majority of people with dementia are 65 years of age or older.”
“It is well known that having a family member with dementia puts a person at higher risk of developing the disease,” Dr. Mitchell shares. “However, it is essential to note that many people with a family history of dementia never develop symptoms. Rather, many people with no family history of the condition develop it. Tests are available to determine if a person has specific genetic mutations associated with an increased risk of dementia. However, no test is perfect, and results should be interpreted in the context of a person’s personal and family medical history. Ultimately, whether or not a person develops dementia is a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors.”
Dr. Mitchell tells us: “Although the exact cause of dementia is unknown, it is believed to be related to several factors, including age, genetics, and lifestyle. Certain medical conditions can also increase the risk of developing dementia. For example, people who have had a stroke, heart disease, or Parkinson’s disease are more likely to develop dementia than those who haven’t. This may be due to brain damage caused by these conditions. Additionally, certain medications used to treat these conditions can also contribute to dementia. For example, beta blockers Y antipsychotics have been linked to an increased risk of dementia. As research continues to uncover new risk factors for dementia, it is hoped that treatments and preventive measures can be developed to help reduce the burden of this disease.”
According to Dr. Mitchell, “People exposed to certain chemicals and metals, such as lead or mercury, may be at higher risk of developing dementia. The exact cause of dementia is not yet known, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Exposure to certain toxins is a potential ecological risk factor for dementia. Lead and mercury are two examples of toxins linked to an increased risk of dementia. Lead exposure can occur through occupational exposure, lead-based paint, or contaminated drinking water. Exposure to mercury can occur through eating fish, dental fillings, or occupational exposure. If you have been exposed to these toxins, it is essential to seek medical advice and monitor your cognitive function for any changes.”
Dr. Mitchell states: “Research has found that people with less education are more likely to develop dementia. The study followed more than 6,000 people for 12 years and found that those with fewer years of schooling were more than twice as likely to develop dementia as those with more education. While the reasons for this link are not fully understood, it is clear that lifelong learning can have a positive impact on cognitive health. In addition to reducing the risk of dementia, lifelong learning has been linked to greater mental acuity, greater resistance to stress, and longer life. Whether you’re learning a new language, taking up a new hobby, or just reading a new book every month, making a lifelong commitment to learning can have lasting benefits for your health and well-being.”
Dr. Mitchell explains, “A brain injury is an injury that causes damage to the brain. A brain injury can be caused by a blow to the head, a penetrating head injury, or an object hitting the head. A brain injury can also be caused by a fall, car accident, or sports injury. A brain injury can cause bleeding in the brain, bruising of the brain, or swelling of the brain. A brain injury can also cause damage to the blood vessels in the brain. A brain injury can cause loss of consciousness, memory loss, confusion, seizures, and coma. A severe head injury can increase the risk of developing dementia later on. Dementia is a progressive decline in cognitive function. Dementia affects memory, thinking, and judgment.
Early diagnosis and treatment of dementia are essential to improve quality of life and prevent further deterioration. While there is no sure way to prevent dementia, understanding your risk factors can help you make decisions that can reduce your chance of developing the condition. If you’re concerned about your risks, talk to your doctor for more information.”
Dr. Mitchell says this “does not constitute medical advice and these answers are by no means intended to be exhaustive. Rather, they are to encourage discussions about health options.”
