Neurologists have warned that prolonged exposure to stress can increase the chances of feeling anxious and depressed, which in turn raises the risk of memory loss.
They explained that during times of stress, the body releases a hormone called cortisol, which helps the brain to use glucose more effectively and temporarily boosts energy levels.
However, persistently high levels of cortisol due to chronic stress can disrupt brain function, leading to memory loss, they warn.
Mayo Clinic, an education, healthcare, and research blog, noted that prolonged release of the stress hormone disrupts nearly all bodily processes, increasing the risks of muscle tension and pain, heart attack, high blood pressure, and memory loss, among other health issues.
Meanwhile, another online health blog, Cleveland Clinic, defined memory loss as difficulties in forming, storing, and recalling past events or information.
Furthermore, the Alzheimer’s Association stated that persistent memory loss interfering with daily life may be a sign of Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Also, the World Health Organisation defined dementia as a syndrome resulting from various diseases that impair memory, cognition, and daily functioning, leading to a decline in cognitive abilities.
WHO noted that over 55 million dementia cases are recorded worldwide, with 60 per cent in low and middle-income countries.
It further revealed that dementia ranks as the seventh leading cause of death globally, with approximately 10 million new cases recorded annually.
Additionally, women face higher risks of health problems and mortality due to dementia and often spend significant time caring for individuals affected by it.
Speaking with PUNCH Healthwise, a Professor of Neurosurgery at the College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Olugbenga Odebode, noted that high levels of cortisol in the bloodstream can impair brain function and lead to memory loss, a common symptom observed in dementia patients.
He explained, “During long-term stress, a hormone called cortisol is released. High-level cortisol circulating in the blood increases malfunctioning of the brain and is associated with loss of memory.”
The Neurosurgeon further noted that the disorder or loss of memory was a prominent symptom and sign in patients with dementia.
Also, a professor of Neurology and Internal Medicine at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Ikenna Onwuekwe, stated that individuals exposed to chronic and continuous stress, whether through occupational or environmental factors, may face an increased risk of developing dementia.
He said, “Individuals subjected to prolonged stress, whether due to occupational demands or environmental factors, may face an elevated risk of developing dementia. There is emerging evidence suggesting that chronic stress may exacerbate the onset of dementia.”
Onwuekwe further highlighted the physiological repercussions of stress, including elevated blood pressure, which can exacerbate conditions such as dementia.
However, he pointed out that the risk factors for dementia are complex and include a person's surroundings, family history, and genetic conditions.
The professor also mentioned that while dementia is common among white people, there is a rise in cases among black and African populations.
Onwuekwe, however, noted that the increasing occurrence in Nigerians had not been confirmed, and called for further research to understand the characteristics and types of dementia for better treatment.
“The influence of genes is becoming more significant in disease conditions like dementia. For example, Alzheimer’s disease is a common cause of dementia in white people. Dementia was generally thought to be more common in white people than in black people, but we are now seeing more cases in black and African populations. However, it is not as high as in Caucasians.
“One of the genes known to be involved in Alzheimer’s is apolipoprotein E. The defects in this gene are linked to Alzheimer’s disease. So if someone is born with that inherited defect, they are very likely to develop Alzheimer’s, which can be passed on to their children. In developed countries, people can be screened early in life and be informed that they are prone to have Alzheimer’s,” Onwuekwe explained.
The professor also recommended proactive healthcare measures for individuals with a family history of memory loss and called for regular medical check-ups to allow early detection and intervention.
The neurologist also mentioned that dementia, which is not related to genetic factors, like vascular dementia, could be prevented.
“Vascular dementia is caused by repeated strokes in the brain and eventually leads to dementia. It is observed in people who have high blood pressure, diabetes, or other cardiovascular conditions that could cause blockage of the arteries.
“For such types of dementia, it is easier to discuss prevention as it can be monitored as part of an annual health check. Those who have high blood pressure should ensure they treat themselves and make sure that their blood pressure is well controlled, the same goes for high blood sugar and cholesterol.
“These three things are usually at the core of arterial blockages in individuals, so if high blood pressure, sugar, and cholesterol can be controlled, the chances of developing vascular dementia, a major cause of dementia in some populations, are significantly reduced,” said Onwuekwe.
To prevent the onset of non-genetic risk factors for dementia, the professor recommended adopting healthy habits and staying physically and mentally active.
While warning against tobacco and alcohol use, and weight gain, the professor endorsed the consumption of fruits and vegetables, engaging in daily 30-minute exercise sessions, and listening to music.
Onwuekwe further advised, “Keep your mind occupied mentally by doing tasks, such as reading books, playing mind-stimulating games like chess, Sudoku, and crossword puzzles, and avoid being sedentary.
“Playing these games works by increasing what we call the cerebral cortical reserve, which is the number of neurons that are crucially lost in dementia, so playing games helps to maintain their stability and connection. Eat more nuts, as they have been shown to enhance memory and may be useful for people at increased risk of developing dementia.
“Additionally, stay away from areas with bad air and smoke, and try to avoid getting stressed from work or personal life. If your family has a history of memory problems, make sure to get regular check-ups so any changes can be spotted early and treated promptly.”
