Scientist reveals some women may be at higher risk of dementia because of a common condition
Our bodies are exposed to a constant risk of hereditary or other external diseases. While it may not be possible to completely chalk out the diagnosis of these conditions, we can always do our part to reduce or delay the effect. This is majorly done by observing signs and symptoms that suggest a decline in health. For conditions like dementia, the signs and symptoms are evident even at an early stage. A study done by PLOS revealed that women with a condition in particular might be more vulnerable to dementia. Having symptoms of this condition can be linked to a higher risk of cognitive issues, per Parade.
Women go through a period of menopause in their middle ages and this includes different phases. It is a massive change in all aspects for a woman. There is a perimenopausal, menopausal and postmenopausal stage and at each of these, different symptoms, issues or changes might be noticed in the female body. The study revealed that women having severe symptoms during these phases are likely to be more vulnerable to dementia. The health issue is described as the “loss of cognitive functioning,” per the National Institute of Aging. It affects a person’s ability to think, remember, reason and other cognitive functions.
The study was conducted on 896 women in their 60s or so who had experienced menopause. These participants noted their symptoms during the different phases which included chills, forgetfulness, hot flashes, inattentiveness, irregular periods, mood swings, night sweats, sleep disruptions, slowed metabolism, vaginal dryness, weight gain and other unnamed symptoms. However, the study also found that women experiencing these symptoms in severity were linked to a likelihood of mild behavioral and cognitive impairment symptoms. Menopause does affect psychological and cognitive functioning and a decline in these can indicate a risk of dementia.
"Greater menopausal symptom burden may be associated with greater cognitive and behavioral decline in later life, both risk markers of dementia," said Dr. Zahinoor Ismail, MD, FRCPC from the University of Calgary. Each additional symptom is likely to connect with an added or poorer cognitive dysfunction. While there may be a mild risk of cognitive condition, there is still a long way to confirm and accurately depict its effect. The study noted that it required more research and even a larger sample size to make more precise conclusions. It pointed out that “neither the type of menopause nor the age of menopausal onset was significantly associated” with the cognitive functionality score.
Moreover, it was noted that there is no mention as to whether dementia is directly linked with menopausal symptoms or other external or internal factors. There is still clarity to be obtained on whether genetics, age and other factors also play a role in addition to menopausal symptoms. In the meantime, Dr. Ismail suggested looking up estrogen therapy, also known as hormone replacement therapy, to help with perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms. Additionally, it would be a good idea to consult your doctor about your symptoms, its effects and how to look out for your brain health to maintain efficient health altogether.