Taking this popular over -the -counter medication can increase your risk of dementia, say the researchers

You probably have your pharmacy cabinet.


Without remedy known for dementia, researchers, scientists and the medical community have been focusing for a long time onpreventive measures and an early diagnosis of this devastating condition. Recognizeearly symptoms is crucial, as rapid diagnosis allows the possibility of more efficient treatment or management.

Researchers also learn more about the types of food, drinks and drugs that can potentially increase your risk of dementia - sometimes with surprising results. For example, studies show thatsoda and eatHighly processed foods can increase your risk of cognitive decline. Some drugs may also increase your risk, including a popular popular drug (OTC) in particular. Read the rest to discover what it is.

Read this then:This current medication could hurt your brain, says a new study.

Someone around the world develops dementia approximately every three seconds.

Senior man looking out of a window.
FG Trade / Istock

Dementia statistics paint a sinister table, especially since the effects are so devastating. According to Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI), more than 55 million peoplesuffer from dementia worldwide, with this number planned at almost double every two decades, reaching 139 million in 2050.

"Dementia" is an umbrella term which refers to the cognitive decline which occurs with many different diseases, in particular Alzheimer's disease, dementia of Lewy's body and vascular dementia. "Dementia is caused by damage or loss of nerve cells and theirBrain connections, "Explains the Mayo Clinic". According to the damaged brain area, dementia can affect people differently and cause different symptoms. ""

Different factors can increase the risk of dementia.

Doctor speaking to senior patient.
Tinpixels / Istock

"Dementia mainly affects the elderly, although there is an increasing awareness of cases that start before the age of 65," said ADI. The Mayo clinic lists someOther risk factors This cannot be changed in addition to age, including having a family history of the condition.

Many other factors can lead to a cognitive decline, in particularAlcohol and drug abuse, tobacco consumption, head injuries, stroke, lack of sleep, stress and deficiency in vitamins, AARP experts write. The site also notes that various prescription drugs can have a negative effect on brain health.

Some antihistamines can have an impact on your cognitive health.

Doctor using a digital tablet to discuss a brain scan.
Charday Penn / Istock

Antihistamines are a type of medication that can increase the risk of dementia. "Antihistamines are adrug class commonly used to treat allergies symptoms, "said the Cleveland clinic." These drugs help treat the conditions caused by too much histamine, a chemical created by your body's immune system. ""

Antihistamines can belinked to cognitive decline Due to the way they affect acetylcholine. "Acetylcholine is a type of chemical messenger, or neurotransmitter, thatPlay a vital role In the central and peripheral nervous system, "according to Most-Well." It is important for muscle control, the functions of the autonomous body and in learning, memory and attention. ""

An antihistamine that has an effect on this chemical messenger is the Popular OTC medication Benadryl.

For more health information sent directly to your reception box,Register for our daily newsletter.

Studies show that Benadryl and some other antihistamines can be linked to cognitive decline.

Pink antihistamine capsules in blister pack.
EHSTOCK / ISTOCK

Benadryl is an anticholinergic drug, which means that it blocks the effects of acetylcholine. Because "acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that is important for cognitive function, it plays a key role in memory and learning,"Alice Williams, MD, doctorBased in Las Vegas, recountBetter life. "Thus, when Benadryl blocks the effects of acetylcholine, he can interfere with memory and learning."AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

A study published inInternal medicine Jama found that "higher cumulative anticholinergic use is associated with aIncreased risk of dementia, "Advise that" efforts to increase the awareness of health professionals and the elderly on this potential risk related to drugs are important to minimize anticholinergic use over time ".

AARP listsAlternatives to Benadryl, including Vistaril, Clistin and Dimetane. "More recent antihistamines such as loratadine (claritine) and ketirizine (Zyrtec) are better tolerated by older patients and do not present the same risks in memory and cognition," they write.

Best Life offers the most recent information from high -level experts, new research and health agencies, but our content is not supposed to replace professional advice. Regarding the medication you take or any other health issue you have, always consult your health care provider directly.


Categories: Health
Tags: / medicine / News
If you notice that when you keep, have your lungs checked, say experts
If you notice that when you keep, have your lungs checked, say experts
Your coronavirus test results are definitely wrong if you have committed this error
Your coronavirus test results are definitely wrong if you have committed this error
The best Christmas tree in each state
The best Christmas tree in each state