What is Binswanger’s disease?
Binswanger’s disease is a form of vascular dementia. It is a result of brain damage due to problems with the blood supply to the brain.
What causes Binswanger’s disease?
Binswanger’s disease is caused by a number of small changes to the blood vessels that are found deep inside the brain causing them to become thick, stiff and twisted and resulting in reduced blood flow through them.
Over time these changes can cause damage to the parts of the brain that are important for attention, memory and language.
What are the symptoms of Binswanger’s disease?
The symptoms of Binswanger’s disease vary depending on the area of the brain that is affected and usually become more severe over time.
Common symptoms in the early stages of the condition include:
- Difficulties with planning, organising, concentrating, decision-making and problem-solving
- A slower speed of thought
- Mild memory problems
- Difficulties with language
- Mood changes.
Later symptoms may include:
- Severe confusion or disorientation
- Memory loss
- Behaviour changes
- Delusions or hallucinations
- Difficulties walking or eating.
