Dementia could follow fluctuations in blood pressure readings
WEDNESDAY, JULY 31, 2013 09:28 AM

Currently, an estimated 5.2 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease, according to the Alzheimer's Association. As this is one of the most common forms of dementia, it is important for individuals to know the signs of this debilitating disease.

Based on new research from three European institutions, fluctuations in visit-to-visit blood pressure readings appear to signal problems with cognitive function among older adults who are also at risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The study's findings came from data on 5,461 adults between the ages of 70 and 82.

Researchers found that individuals who displayed variability in their visit-to-visit blood pressure readings performed poorly on cognitive tests. For this reason, people who have a history of fluctuating blood pressure readings may want to take an IQ test and see if their intelligence has been affected.

At the same time, these individuals should try to find ways to reduce their blood pressure. To accomplish this, the Mayo Clinic suggests people exercise regularly, avoid stress, eat healthy, drink less alcohol and caffeine, and reduce their sodium intake.