(Foreword: This is the continuation of our response to Almira C. of Puan regarding her concern on what raises the chances of getting dementia published on April 23, 2019.)
DEAR Almira C. of Puan,
Alright, let’s get moving. Here are more of those conditions that can potentially raise one’s chances of dementia.
6. Depression
This may get people more likely to get dementia. So if you feel you are down and out and want to harm yourself, be sure to see your physician or talk with a therapist to help you out.
7. Head injury
Watch out for more severe or repeated hits or falls in your head. They could more than double your chances to get dementia later in life. So if you hit your head and you lost your consciousness, or have blurry vision, or become dizzy, confused, nauseated, or over-sensitive to light, get yourself as soon as possible to your doctor.
8. Obesity
A lot of excess pounds can drive your chances up to heart disease and diabetes, which are linked to dementia. Of course, a healthy diet and regular exercise can help you get back in shape.
9. Stroke
The damaged blood vessels can make you hard to think, talk or even pay attention, leading to vascular dementia. So try to avoid these risks: high blood pressure, heart disease and smoking. Remember to think “FAST” for stroke symptoms: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech problems, its’ Time to call 911 at once.
10. Poor Sleep
Getting a bad night of sleep more often would increase your chances of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. So get a smart sleep routine and say no to alcohol, caffeine, and electronics in the evening.
11. Smoking
This isn’t good for your blood vessels, and your chances of getting stroke would be high, which can lead to vascular dementia, giving you memory and thinking problems.
12. Dementia with Lewy bodies
Proteins called Lewy bodies can build up and damage brain cells leading to problems with memory and movement. A good diet and exercise would help you ease the way.
Good luck!
Dr. Fritz
(Dr. Fritz Legarde Espedilla is an aesthetic dermatologist and surgeon and a clinical sexologist. She is also trained in hypnotherapy and Medical Acupuncture. She has been in the broadcast media for more than a decade and has written a book based on her 15 year stint with her radio program, “Healthy is Sexy Secrets ni Dr. Fritz.” She is the program host of Secrets with Dr. Fritz over Hugyaw.com. For your questions, you may send them to Dear Dr. Fritz, c/o SunStar-Davao Publishing Inc., Ebro-Pelayo Building, Jacinto St., Davao City, (former Department of Foreign Affairs office), across Ateneo de Davao University and beside Holy Child School of Davao, or you e-mail them to dokfritz@yahoo.com. If you don’t wish your letter to be published, we regret that we cannot answer them. Thank you for your understanding.)