Can Anxiety Cause Dementia?

Is there a link between anxiety and dementia? The answer appears to be a resounding yes. Anxiety is commonly seen in individuals with certain types of dementia. However, researchers are increasingly studying anxiety as a potential risk factor for dementia.

Indeed, a growing body of research suggests that anxiety experienced earlier in life might have a causal effect on the development of dementia later in life. Individuals with mild cognitive impairment may have a higher risk of developing dementia, which is relevant to the discussion about anxiety as a potential risk factor.

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental disorder affecting more than 40 million U.S. adults. Considering just 43.2% get proper treatment, the implications for dementia risk are significant. Here’s what you need to know about anxiety and its potential role in the development of dementia. Plus, you’ll discover ways to keep your anxiety levels in check.

WHAT IS CLINICALLY SIGNIFICANT ANXIETY?

General anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by persistent feelings of fear, worry, and unease. An individual’s anxious feelings are uncontrollable, and they are typically out of proportion for a particular situation or stressor.

This is different than the transitory anxiety we all experience. This type of anxiousness is usually related to an event or situation, such as the first day on a new job, a first date, or an exam.

People who have general anxiety disorders worry and feel nervous most of the time about everyday activities that do not pose a threat. Anxiety is disproportionately more common in women, teens, and those affected with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also known as attention-deficit disorder (ADD).

Common physical symptoms of anxiety include insomnia, heart palpitations (panic attacks), trouble concentrating, and dizziness. Anxiety disorder symptoms can run the gamut from mild (such as nervous feelings, tending to imagine the worst, or feeling tensed up) to severe (such as suicidal thoughts).

When anxiety goes untreated, it can wreak havoc in your life. It can put an individual at risk for other mental health conditions and physical health issues such as:

• Depression
• Panic disorder
• Substance abuse
• Physical ailments (e.g., colds)
• Suicidal behavior

Mounting research suggests that untreated anxiety may impact your brain in such a way that it also sets you up for dementia later in life.

BASICS ABOUT DEMENTIA

Dementia is defined as a general and pervasive deterioration of memory, as well as at least one other cognitive ability, such as language and executive function. This can be due to various causes. The loss of cognitive function is pronounced enough to negatively impact an individual’s normal daily functioning, work, and social life.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of memory loss cases. Ongoing research has shown connections between Alzheimer’s disease and various factors, such as stress and emotional dysregulation, indicating the complexity of its development and progression. But there are many other types of dementia, including:

• Vascular dementia
• Frontotemporal dementia (FTD)
• Alcohol-related dementia

Regardless of the type of dementia, memory loss is not normal, even for aging people.

WHAT CAUSES DEMENTIA?

There are multiple dementia causes or risk factors that lead to its development. In addition to the recent study findings suggesting anxiety as a risk factor, other common causes may include any of the following:

• Depression
• ADD/ADHD
• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Alcoholism and substance abuse
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI), including mild concussions
• Family history of Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia
• Infections that can affect the brain, such as Lyme disease
• Heart health issues
• Type-2 diabetes and prediabetes
• Genetic factors such as APOE4
• Altered microbiome
• Gum disease
• Gender
• Obesity and eating a poor diet
• Untreated sleep apnea
• Certain medications
• Cancer/chemotherapy
• Exposure to toxins
• Underactive thyroid
• Hypertension or prehypertension
• Chronic inflammation

ANXIETY’S LINK TO DEMENTIA

A marked association between anxiety and dementia has been noted in multiple studies over the past decade. However, until recently, researchers were not sure if anxiety was an early symptom of dementia or an independent risk factor.

Research findings indicate that individuals with mild cognitive impairment may have a higher risk of converting to dementia compared to those who are cognitively intact. This is relevant to the association between anxiety and dementia, as studies have included cohorts of participants with mild cognitive impairment to examine this link.

A systematic review published in the January 2022 issue of BMJ Open points to the latter. The review included four reliable studies involving close to 30,000 participants. All four studies indicated a positive connection between moderate to severe anxiety and the development of dementia later in life.

The researchers concluded, “Clinically significant anxiety in midlife was associated with an increased risk of dementia over at least 10 years.”

What’s more, the review’s authors noted that the findings indicate anxiety may be a risk factor for late-life dementia—and not a symptom. The authors additionally suggested that the link may be explained by the excessive stress response triggered by the anxiety.

Indeed, chronic stress and anxiety can cause ongoing suppression of the prefrontal cortex, as well as hippocampus atrophy, research has noted. These actions contribute to the development of dementia.

Another study found that chronic phobic anxiety may shorten telomere length in middle-aged and older women. Telomeres are structures found at the ends of chromosomes made from DNA sequences and proteins. Like the end of a shoelace, telomeres cap and protect the end of a chromosome from getting tangled or frayed.

Telomere length shortens with age. Shortened telomere length is associated with a greater likelihood of disease and poor survival. The study indicated that untreated chronic phobic anxiety is a possible risk factor for accelerated aging. Other research shows that short telomeres are associated with a greater risk of neurological and psychiatric disorders including dementia.

Emotional dysregulation, which is common with anxiety disorders, may also play into the development of dementia recent research indicates. It appears that emotional dysregulation can adversely impact the posterior cingulate and the amygdala—areas heavily involved in autobiographical memory and regulating emotions.

Regardless of the specific cause, anxiety is undoubtedly linked to an increased risk of developing dementia, especially as we grow older.

ANXIETY’S IMPACT ON COGNITIVE FUNCTION

Anxiety can have a profound impact on cognitive function, particularly as we age. Research has shown that anxiety can impair attention, memory, and processing speed, leading to cognitive impairment. This can make everyday tasks more challenging and affect an individual’s ability to maintain independence.

Anxiety often reduces the ability to focus and pay attention, making it difficult to concentrate on tasks. This can be particularly problematic for older adults, who may already be experiencing some degree of cognitive decline. Additionally, anxiety can affect memory, making it harder to learn new information and recall existing memories.

Chronic anxiety can also lead to structural changes in the brain. Studies have shown that prolonged anxiety can reduce the volume of the hippocampus, a region critical for memory and learning. This reduction in hippocampal volume is associated with cognitive decline and an increased risk of developing dementia.

Moreover, anxiety can exacerbate existing cognitive decline, creating a vicious cycle where anxiety and cognitive impairment feed into each other. This highlights the importance of managing anxiety to protect cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia.

THE ROLE OF STRESS IN DEMENTIA DEVELOPMENT

Stress is a well-known risk factor for dementia, and chronic stress can significantly accelerate cognitive decline. When we experience stress, our body’s “fight or flight” response is triggered, releasing stress hormones like cortisol. While this response is beneficial in short bursts, chronically elevated cortisol levels can be detrimental to the brain.

Chronic stress can lead to structural changes in the brain, including reduced volume in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. These areas are crucial for memory, learning, and executive function. Prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol can damage these brain regions, leading to cognitive impairment and increasing the risk of dementia.

Additionally, stress can promote inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are linked to cognitive decline and dementia. Inflammation can damage brain cells and disrupt neural communication, while oxidative stress can lead to the accumulation of harmful molecules that further damage brain tissue.

Research has shown that managing stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, and social support can help mitigate the risk of dementia. By reducing stress levels, we can protect our brain health and potentially delay or prevent the onset of cognitive decline.

ASSESSING INDIVIDUAL RISK

Assessing individual risk for dementia is crucial for identifying those who may benefit from early intervention and prevention strategies. Several factors can increase the risk of dementia, including age, family history, and lifestyle choices.

Age is the greatest risk factor for dementia, with the risk increasing significantly after the age of 65. However, it’s not the only factor to consider. Family history also plays a role, particularly if a first-degree relative has been diagnosed with dementia. This genetic predisposition can increase an individual’s risk of developing the condition.

Lifestyle factors are also important to consider. Physical inactivity, social isolation, and a poor diet can all increase the risk of dementia. Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining social connections, and following a healthy diet can help reduce this risk.

By assessing individual risk factors, healthcare providers can identify those who may benefit from early intervention and prevention strategies. This proactive approach can help delay the onset of dementia and improve the quality of life for those at risk.

In conclusion, understanding the impact of anxiety and stress on cognitive function, as well as assessing individual risk factors, is essential for mitigating the risk of dementia. By addressing these factors early on, we can take steps to protect our brain health and maintain cognitive function as we age.

REDUCE ANXIETY TO MITIGATE DEMENTIA RISK?

You may wonder, “If anxiety is to blame for accelerated cognitive decline, does this mean that alleviating anxiety would minimize the risk of dementia?” It’s an excellent question that remains unanswered by science.

That said, there are many lifestyle actions you can take that can relieve anxiety. This can make you feel better in the short term and may possibly protect you against memory loss issues in the future.

5 WAYS TO LESSEN ANXIETY

Here are five natural ways to reduce your anxiety levels.

1. Try psychotherapy.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps to address negative self-talk and is the most effective therapy for reducing anxiety. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy helps reduce stress and anxiety related to trauma.

2. Avoid foods that can increase anxiety.

For example, coffee is associated with higher levels of anxiety as are many inflammatory foods. Consider a calming alternative to coffee like green tea, which still promotes alertness and mental clarity. You can also take nutritional supplements with calming ingredients like l-theanine (extracted from green tea), GABA, saffron, or magnesium.

3. Try holistic and natural solutions.

Yoga, tai chi, biofeedback, and meditation have been shown to provide relaxation benefits according to research. Of course, a simple walk in nature can help alleviate anxiety too.

4. Practice diaphragmatic breathing.

Anxiety can constrict your breathing to rapid, shallow breaths, which may impact your blood’s oxygen levels and increase anxiety further. Calm your nervous system by repeating 10 cycles of deep breathing. Research shows that diaphragmatic breathing practices may help bring down stress and anxiety levels.

5. Try alternative calming methods.

Research indicates acupuncture may help to alleviate anxiety. Also, hypnosis, guided imagery, listening to soothing music, or progressive muscle relaxation may help to lessen anxiety and even offer additional benefits like better sleep.

If you struggle with anxiety, it doesn’t mean that you will develop dementia. But it is a warning signal to address it right away. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for help.

Reviewed by Amen Clinics Inc. Clinicians