2. High blood pressure, also termed as hypertension, is
becoming a more common mental health disorder
worldwide. It directly affects the body's arteries and plays
a significant role in causing cardiac arrest in people.
Several studies have also revealed that specific factors or
conditions associated with high blood pressure can amplify
the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. For
instance, individuals who concurrently suffer from
hypertension and depression or face financial challenges
are more susceptible to cognitive difficulties.
Introduction
3. Dementia is typically caused by multiple factors
affecting the brain, with strokes and Alzheimer's
disease being common contributors to cognitive
decline. Lowering blood pressure plays a crucial role
in minimising the risk of dementia as it helps decrease
the likelihood of strokes, which can lead to cognitive
impairment.
It is important to note that these strokes, although
often small and unnoticed, can have a cumulative
effect. Experiencing multiple small strokes or a few
larger ones significantly increases the chances of
developing dementia. Thus, managing and lowering
blood pressure becomes vital in reducing the risk of
dementia and promoting brain health.
High-blood pressure and Dementia
4. Vascular damage: Prolonged high blood pressure
can harm blood vessels throughout the body,
including the brain's vasculature. This damage can
impede blood flow, causing oxygen deprivation
and nutrient deficiencies in brain cells, ultimately
leading to cognitive impairment and an increased
risk of vascular dementia.
Stroke: Hypertension is a significant risk factor for
stroke. Consistently elevated blood pressure strains
blood vessels, making them more susceptible to
blockages or ruptures. Interrupting blood flow
toward the brain results in brain cell damage,
memory loss, attention, concentration difficulties,
and other cognitive deficits.
Hypertension Contribution to Cognitive Impairment and Dementia
5. Small vessel disease: High blood pressure can
contribute to developing small vessel disease in
the brain. This condition damages the small
vessels, impairing blood flow and oxygen
delivery to brain tissue. This disease is
associated with cognitive impairment, including
problems with thinking, planning, and memory.
Accelerated brain aging: Chronic hypertension
has been linked to accelerated brain aging.
High blood pressure may cause structural
changes in the brain, such as reduced brain
volume and abnormalities in white matter.
These changes can disrupt communication
between brain regions and compromise
cognitive function.
Hypertension Contribution to Cognitive Impairment and Dementia
6. Whenever an individual experiences stress,
their body releases chemicals like adrenaline
and cortisol, which increases heart rate and
blood vessel constriction.
If the habit of stress continues for a long time,
it might lead to high blood pressure and
certain heart conditions. The unhealthy
coping mechanism is also responsible for
furthering the adverse effects of stress.
Individuals need to take care of their stress to
avoid hypertension problems.
Hypertension Relation to Stress
7. It is crucial to be on the look-out about the symptoms of
hypertension and take steps to manage its impact. One of the highly
influential and accessible ways to do this is through self-care and
adopting a lifestyle that promotes reduced stress levels. By
prioritizing self-care practices and consciously minimizing stress,
individuals can play an active role in maintaining their blood
pressure within healthy limits.
If you're someone who wants to incorporate a healthy lifestyle into
their routine, then get connected with Solh Wellness. We are one of
kind mental health platform that provides the tools and solutions
through which an individual can take care of their mental health on
their own. Download the Solh App and take a step towards better
mental health and life.
Conclusion
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