Displaying one ‘clogged drains’ sign may be linked to Alzheimer’s risk | UK | News
A condition that causes ‘blockage of channels’ in the brain could be an early warning sign of dementia, according to new research. Scientists believe they can now identify these blockages through standard MRI scans, potentially improving existing methods for early detection of Alzheimer’s.
to workcarried out by Nanyang Technological University, SingaporeIt included approximately 1,000 participants from various ethnic backgrounds. Participants underwent comprehensive assessments and were categorized as having ‘normal’ cognitive function, ‘subjective’ cognitive decline or mild cognitive impairment. MRI scans, blood samples and other data were then analyzed.
Overall, the researchers found that people with mild cognitive impairment tended to have more ‘enlarged perivascular space’ (EPVS) than other participants. This condition refers to the fluid-filled spaces surrounding small blood vessels that become larger than normal, making them visible on an MRI.
The team now believes that EPVS (or ‘clogged drains’) is a possible early sign of Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia. Associate Professor Nagaendran Kandiah, NTU Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, in question: “Since these brain abnormalities can be visually identified on routine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to evaluate cognitive decline, identifying them could complement existing methods to detect Alzheimer’s earlier without having to run and pay for additional tests.”
Blood vessels in the brain are surrounded by spaces called perivascular spaces that help drain and clear toxic waste, including beta amyloid and tau proteins. These waste products are present in larger amounts in Alzheimer’s patients.
When these drains become blocked because the brain’s waste clearance system is not working properly, they create enlarged perivascular areas that can be seen on MRI scans. But it previously seemed unclear whether the condition was linked to dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease.
Following their latest discovery, researchers are now hopeful that doctors can improve patient care and delay the progression of the disease in its early stages before possibly irreversible brain damage occurs.
If future studies confirm the link between clogged drains and Alzheimer’s in different groups, detecting EPVS could eventually form part of the arsenal used to predict the development of Alzheimer’s at an earlier point.
Associate Professor Kandiah continued: “The findings carry important clinical implications. While white matter damage is more commonly used in clinical practice to assess dementia because it is easily recognized on MRI scans, our results suggest that enlarged perivascular spaces may be of unique value in detecting early signs of Alzheimer’s disease.”
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
Accordingly NHS More than 944,000 people in the UK are living with dementia, data shows; This includes one in every 11 people over the age of 65. World Health Organization It states that Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for approximately 60 to 70% of all cases.
The exact cause of Alzheimer’s remains a mystery, but there are several known risk factors. These include:
- Lifestyle factors and conditions associated with cardiovascular disease
- Increasing age (but dementia is not a ‘normal’ part of aging)
- Family history of the condition
- untreated depression
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, meaning its symptoms develop slowly over years. Initial symptoms often include minor memory problems, such as forgetting names or conversations.
As the disease progresses, the NHS warns other symptoms may appear:
- hallucinations
- Difficulties with communication, speech, or language
- difficulty making decisions
- Confusion, disorientation, or getting lost in familiar places
- Low mood and anxiety
- Behavior changes – increased aggression or suspiciousness
- Problems moving without assistance
Recommendation NHS He adds: “There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but there are medications that can help relieve some of the symptoms. A variety of other types of support are also available to help people with Alzheimer’s live as independently as possible, such as making changes to your home environment, making it easier to move around and remember daily tasks.”
“Psychological treatments such as cognitive stimulation therapy may also be offered to help support your memory, problem-solving skills, and language ability.”
If you think you are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, it is recommended that you consult your doctor. You can find more information at: NHS website.
