Overview
What Is Vascular Dementia?
Vascular dementia is a common complication from stroke. It occurs when your brain tissue is damaged due to a reduction in blood flow to your brain caused by a stroke or series of strokes. It can also result from other conditions that harm blood vessels or reduce circulation, depriving your brain of necessary oxygen and nutrients.
Vascular dementia can result in:
- Trouble with reasoning
- Difficulty making plans
- Poor judgment
- Loss of memory
Approximately one-fifth of people who suffer a stroke will have problems with mental ability. Vascular dementia is second only to Alzheimer’s disease as a leading cause of dementia.
If someone you love has vascular dementia, Northwestern Medicine is home to skilled neurologists*, rehabilitation specialists and other caring professionals who can provide the diagnosis, treatment and support you need.