Dementia Hidden in 20% of Heart Failure Patients

Dementia is found in one-fifth of patients with heart failure, according to Assistant Professor of Cardiology of Heart Failure EKPA, Christina Chrysochoou. Dr. Chrysochoou addressed this issue in a speech at the 3rd Panhellenic Cardiology Conference «CardioDialogues» in Athens.

The professor explained the relationship between dementia and cardiovascular problems: «There are multiple causes. The first is small strokes that occur in the brain's circulation, thus blocking areas related to cognitive ability». These strokes can be caused by atrial fibrillation, blood clots, or blood flow disorders.

Early diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases and appropriate medication can prevent dementia. Early onset of cardiovascular disease is associated with an increased risk of dementia before the age of 65. A Neurocardiology department operates at Hippocratio hospital to monitor patients with mixed cardiological and neurological problems.