Fear of COVID-19 appear again People started wearing masks and taking precautions. It seems people with dementia need to be more careful. That’s because a new study finds that Covid-19 infection plays a role in accelerating the progression of dementia. The study, which was conducted in West Bengal and published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease Reports, found that participants with neurodegenerative conditions experienced rapid dementia after infection with SARS-CoV-2. Read on to find out. on how people can take care of their brains
To find out more, HealthShots got in touch with Dr. Jaideep Bansal, Director and Chief Neurology – Fortis Hospital Shalimar Bagh, Delhi, and Dr Prithvi Giri, Consultant Neurology at Narayana Multispeciality Hospital Jaipur.
What is dementia?
Dementia is a disease of the brain that can interfere with daily activities. Whether it’s about memory, attention, reading, writing, decision-making, judging, social interaction. comprehension or calculation Everything is affected when a person has dementia. This happens because there is a gradual decline in cognitive function, Dr. Bansal says.
Dementia and COVID
Three years have passed and we are still seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases. There are many neurological symptoms. especially the disturbance of thought These neurological symptoms may include the following:
• Brain fog (marked decrease in thinking ability)
• anxiety
• depression
• Forgetfulness
• poor concentration
• sleep disturbances
• Mood swings.
Dr Bansal said there was a thorough investigation into how Covid-19 affects nervous system function and increases the risk of dementia. especially in people with pre-existing neurodegenerative diseases
How to take care of your brain health after COVID-19
after you have recovered Here are some things you can do to take care of your brain health –
1. Maintain a healthy lifestyle
You should stop advocating a sedentary lifestyle. And start exercising regularly and getting enough sleep, said Dr. Jiri.
2. Eat Well
Emphasize a healthy diet and include green leafy vegetables and fruits such as kiwis, apricots, pineapples and oranges. You can also eat nuts such as almonds, walnuts and cashews. and peanuts, which are rich in fat, magnesium, vitamin E and B vitamins. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts are also healthier options, says Dr Bansal.
3. Always be mentally active.
Not only physical health but mental health should also be considered. Engage in brain-challenging activities, such as learning a new skill or hobby, suggests Dr. Giri.
4. Manage Stress
life is quite stressful But you have to do something about it. Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. to manage stress
5. Connect socially
Call your friends and family members if you haven’t already. This will help combat the loneliness and loneliness that can take a toll on your brain.
6. Check for changes in cognitive functioning.
Follow up with your doctor to monitor changes in cognitive function and seek immediate medical attention if needed.
What makes dementia progress so quickly?
There may be factors that make dementia progress so quickly. These include:
• age
• Genetics
• Poor nutrition and lack of exercise.
• Alcohol and drugs.
• Head injuries.
• Chronic stress and depression.
Dr. Jiri warns that people with other health conditions should be more careful This is because they may be at higher risk of developing dementia. For example, people with high blood pressure, diabetes and cardiovascular disease should manage their conditions carefully to reduce their risk of developing dementia.
Tips to slow down decay
Medications and treatments may be prescribed to manage symptoms and slow the progression of the disease, Dr. Giri said. But there are ways to slow down the progression of the disease. Here are some things you can do –
• Limit the use of alcohol and drugs.
• Reduce stress.
• Get enough sleep.
These lifestyle changes can help maintain cognitive function and improve the quality of life for people with dementia.
