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Vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are two of the most common forms of dementia. While they may share some similar symptoms, there are some important differences between the two. It’s important to understand the differences between the two in order to get a better understanding of how to diagnose and treat them.
What is Vascular Dementia?
Vascular dementia is a form of dementia that is caused by a decrease in the blood supply to the brain. It is a form of cognitive decline which can affect memory, thinking, language, judgment and behavior. It is usually caused by stroke, but can also be caused by heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or any other condition that affects blood flow to the brain.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills. It is the most common form of dementia and affects more than five million Americans. It is caused by the build-up of abnormal proteins in the brain, which affects the communication between nerve cells. Alzheimer’s is a degenerative disease and is terminal.
The Difference between Vascular Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
The difference between the two lies in the cause of the cognitive decline. Alzheimer’s is caused by the build-up of proteins in the brain, whereas vascular dementia is caused by a decrease in the blood supply to the brain. While the symptoms of the two may be similar, they can also vary greatly. For example, vascular dementia can cause sudden changes in behavior, while Alzheimer’s usually causes a gradual decline in cognitive abilities.
Symptoms of Vascular Dementia
The symptoms of vascular dementia can vary depending on the type of brain damage that has occurred. Common symptoms of this form of dementia include confusion, difficulty concentrating, short-term memory loss, difficulty with decision making, difficulty with problem solving and planning, difficulty with language and communication, difficulty with physical coordination and balance, and changes in behavior and personality.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
The most common symptom of Alzheimer’s disease is memory loss, but it can also cause confusion, difficulty concentrating, language problems, mood swings, changes in behavior, and difficulty with problem solving and planning. As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms, such as hallucinations, delusions, and difficulty with basic activities of daily living, may occur.
Diagnosis of Vascular Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
The diagnosis of both vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease is made through a combination of physical and neurological examinations, laboratory tests, and psychological testing. A brain scan is often used to help diagnose vascular dementia, while a spinal tap or PET scan may be used to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, a doctor may also order a genetic test to determine if the patient has a genetic mutation associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Treatment of Vascular Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease
The treatment for both vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease is aimed at slowing down the progression of the disease and managing the symptoms. Medications are often used to help manage the symptoms, while lifestyle changes, such as getting plenty of exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting adequate sleep, can also help. Additionally, support groups and counseling can be beneficial in helping patients and their caregivers cope with the disease.
Conclusion
Vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are two of the most common forms of dementia. Although they may share some similar symptoms, there are some important differences between the two. It’s important to understand the differences between the two in order to get a better understanding of how to diagnose and treat them. With the right diagnosis and treatment, both forms of dementia can be managed to help improve quality of life.