048 – How Cerebral Small Vessel Disease Affects Most Aging Brains

In This Episode:

Dr. K explains what to know about cerebral small vessel disease (SVD), a very common brain condition linked to cognitive decline, balance and walking problems, dementia, and other significant health issues. She covers:

• Common terms used by radiologists to describe this condition, such as “white matter disease,””small vessel ischemia,” and others
• What is cerebral SVD
• What are the symptoms that can be caused by this condition
• Risk factors and other potential causes for cerebral SVD
• How to treat and prevent cerebral SVD
• Why it’s not usually a good idea to request an MRI to check for this condition
• What to do if you’re concerned about cerebral SVD for yourself or an older loved one

Signs of cerebral small vessel disease. From Inzitari et al, BMJ. 2009 Jul 6;339:b2477. doi: 10.1136/bmj.b2477

Related episodes: 

084 – Interview: Understanding White Matter Changes in the Aging Brain

002 – What to Do If You’re Worried About Someone’s Memory

004 – What to Do If You’re Worried About Falls

018 – High Blood Pressure Treatment in Older Adults: Research Findings & Practical Tips

Related Resources:

• Cerebral Small Vessel Disease: What to Know and What to Do
• How to Diagnose & Treat Mild Cognitive Impairment
• How We Diagnose Dementia: The Practical Basics to Know
• Why Older People Fall & How to Reduce Fall Risk
• New Blood Pressure Study: What to Know About SPRINT-Senior & Other Research