Johns Hopkins Health Alert
Does High Blood Pressure Increase the Risk of Dementia?
A certain amount of forgetfulness is to be expected with age. While this normal forgetfulness is by no means a symptom of dementia, many of us worry that we will suffer memory loss and dementia. Recently, a reader of the Johns Hopkins Hypertension and Stroke White Paper asked: “I've heard that high blood pressure can increase the risk of dementia. Is there anything I can do about it?” Here’s our response.
The verdict is still out about the connection between hypertension and dementia, but some evidence suggests that you may be able to take some steps to protect yourself.
A study in Hypertension of overweight, sedentary people with hypertension or prehypertension found that those assigned to a blood pressure-lowering program of the DASH diet, exercise (30 minutes three times a week) and weight loss had better overall cognitive (thinking) function after four months than the control group.
Another study, in the Journal of Clinical Hypertension, found an association between blood pressure and abnormal white matter in the brain, a risk factor for dementia. On average, people whose blood pressure was 140/90 mm Hg or higher had larger amounts of abnormal white matter than those with normal blood pressure levels. Those with high blood pressure, despite being on blood pressure medication, had the greatest amount of abnormal white matter.
The bottom line: Eating a healthy diet, exercising, losing weight and taking your blood pressure medication will not only lower your blood pressure but could also help keep your thinking sharp. Other research shows that these measures are particularly beneficial in middle age -- many years before dementia sets in.
Posted in Hypertension and Stroke on February 21, 2012
Medical Disclaimer: This information is not intended to substitute for the advice of a physician. Click here for additional information: Johns Hopkins Health Alerts Disclaimer
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