Low blood pressure and dizziness linked to dementia

Research published in Plos Medicine has suggested that people who experience frequent drops in blood pressure or dizziness when suddenly standing may have an increased risk of dementia.

The study claimed that less blood reaches the brain during these moments which could lead to brain cell damage over time.

It involved tracking 6,000 people for an average of 15 years. The researchers noted that those who suffered repeated periods of low blood pressure on standing were more likely to develop dementia in the years that followed.

Dr Arfan Ikram, one of the researchers involved in the project, said: "Even though the effect can be seen as subtle - with an increased risk of about four per cent for people with postural hypotension compared to those without it - so many people suffer from postural hypotension as they get older that it could have a significant impact on the burden of dementia across the world."

"If people experience frequent episodes of dizziness on standing, particularly as they get older, they should see their GPs for advice."

Commenting on the findings, Professor Tom Dening, from Nottingham University, said: “The suggestion is that feeling dizzy, which results from a fall in blood pressure, may interfere with the circulation of blood round the brain and that over time, this causes damage which may contribute to dementia.

"This is a plausible hypothesis and has support from other research. It is possible that something else may be going on. A dizzy spell is not a death sentence nor does it mean you are certain to develop dementia.

"On the other hand, if this problem occurs frequently, then it is worth seeing your doctor as there may be remediable causes, for example if you are taking medication it should be reviewed."

Dr Laura Phipps, of the charity Alzheimer's Research UK, said: "While the risks found in this study are reasonably small compared to other known risk factors for dementia, it adds to a growing and complex picture of how blood pressure changes throughout life can impact the brain.

"As well as maintaining a healthy blood pressure, the best current evidence suggests that not smoking, only drinking in moderation, staying mentally and physically active, eating a balanced diet, and keeping cholesterol levels in check can all help to keep our brains healthy as we age.”