Difference Between Vascular Dementia & Alzheimer's

Vascular dementia and Alzheimer's are both serious medical conditions associated with severe cognitive impairment. Although they feature similar symptoms, there are many differences between vascular dementia and Alzheimer's.

Causes

• Vascular dementia is caused by the narrowing or complete blockage of an artery in the brain. While the exact cause of Alzheimer's is unknown, researchers believe it is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Risk Factors

• The risk of vascular dementia increases with age, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis and high cholesterol, according to the Mayo Clinic. A history of stroke, smoking or diabetes also increases the risk of vascular dementia. Alzheimer's typically affects people older than 65, with a higher occurrence among women. Anyone with mild cognitive impairment or a family history of Alzheimer's is more likely to develop the disease.

Symptoms

• According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common symptoms of vascular dementia include confusion, agitation, memory problems and depression. People with vascular dementia may also experience urinary incontinence, night wandering and loss of balance. Alzheimer's commonly begins with memory loss and confusion, eventually leading to severe mental impairment and disorientation.

Treatment

• As of 2009, there is no cure available for either disease. Cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine have both been approved to treat the symptoms of vascular dementia and Alzheimer's.

Prevention

• Simple strategies may help prevent vascular dementia and Alzheimer's. Maintaining a healthy blood pressure, cholesterol level and glucose level can reduce your risk for either disease.