Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia is the second most common form of dementia after Alzheimer's disease. It is caused by a narrowing or blocking of blood vessels in the brain.[1][2] The resulting damage causes symptoms such as confusion, incontinence, difficulty following instructions or handling money, depression and memory loss.[1][3] These symptoms may be slight at first, but become more prominent over time as more blood vessels become damaged.[1]
There is currently no cure or FDA-approved medication for vascular dementia; however, certain drugs used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease have shown signs of promise in those suffering from vascular dementia.[4]
References
1. MedicineNet. (December 2, 2002). Definition of Vascular Dementia. Retrieved July 11, 2009, from http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=21883.
2. Mayo Clinic. (May 1, 2009). Vascular Dementia Definition. Retrieved July 11, 2009, from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/vascular-dementia/DS00934.
3. Mayo Clinic. (May 1, 2009). Vascular Dementia Symptoms. Retrieved July 11, 2009, from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/vascular-dementia/DS00934/DSECTION=symptoms.
4. Mayo Clinic. (May 1, 2009). Vascular Dementia Treatment & Drugs. Retrieved July 11, 2009, from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/vascular-dementia/DS00934/DSECTION=treatments-and-drugs.
