Dementia Progression Due to Clogged Arteries

Dementia is a decline in cognitive functioning. Dementia that is caused by clogged arteries may be progressive and irreversible. According to MayoClinic.com, there is no cure for this type of dementia.

Vascular Dementia

• Clogged arteries that cut off the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain cause vascular dementia. According to HelpGuide.org, vascular dementia is the second most common form of dementia in the United States.

Cause

• According to MayoClinic.com, vascular dementia may result from a stroke, which is the complete blockage of an artery in the brain, or by a narrowing of the arteries. Blood clots or plaque build-up on artery walls may cause narrowing and blockage of the arteries.

Types

• Multi-infarct dementia refers to vascular dementia caused by a series of mild strokes, or transient ischemic attacks, that may go unnoticed yet cause damage to parts of the brain that regulate memory, language and the ability to learn.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of dementia due to clogged arteries may include memory loss, impaired speech and language capability, behavioral disturbances, movement disorders and cognitive decline.

Considerations

• Risk factors for vascular dementia include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and smoking. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, the prognosis for those with multi-infarct dementia is generally poor.