Scientists from the University of South Australia (UniSA) have found that fluctuations in blood pressure throughout the day and week may be associated with an increased risk of dementia and heart disease. The results of the research were published in the journal Cerebral Circulation – Cognition and Behavior.
The authors examined the blood pressure of 70 healthy older adults, ages 60 to 80, who had no signs of dementia or cognitive impairment. Researchers found that greater blood pressure fluctuation throughout the day and week was associated with decreased cognitive function and increased blood vessel stiffness. The second indicator indicates increased cardiovascular risk.
Researchers believe blood pressure variability may be an early sign of cognitive impairment or heart disease. Currently, hypertension treatment focuses on lowering blood pressure and ignores blood pressure variability. If their results are confirmed, controlling blood pressure fluctuations may be one way to prevent dementia.
Previous scientists I learnedMedicines containing some intestinal bacteria can lower blood pressure in hypertension.