What are some illnesses that impair cognitive health?

Several diseases and illnesses can impair cognitive health, leading to various degrees of cognitive dysfunction. Some notable conditions include:

1. Alzheimer's Disease: This progressive neurodegenerative disease is characterized by memory loss, confusion, and impaired cognitive function. It is the most common cause of dementia.

2. Parkinson's Disease: Alongside motor symptoms, Parkinson's can lead to cognitive impairments, including difficulties with memory, attention, and executive function.

3. Vascular Dementia: Often resulting from stroke or vascular damage to the brain, it causes cognitive decline due to impaired blood flow.

4. Huntington's Disease: A genetic disorder that affects movement and cognitive function, leading to problems with planning, reasoning, and memory.

5. Frontotemporal Dementia: This rare form of dementia primarily impacts the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, causing personality changes, language difficulties, and cognitive decline.

6. Multiple Sclerosis: Cognitive impairment can be a symptom of this autoimmune disease, affecting memory, information processing speed, and executive function.

7. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): TBI can lead to various cognitive deficits, depending on the severity and location of the injury.

These conditions highlight the diverse ways in which diseases and illnesses can impair cognitive health, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate management to improve the quality of life for affected individuals.

References:

1. McKhann, G. M., Knopman, D. S., Chertkow, H., Hyman, B. T., Jack, C. R., Kawas, C. H., & Phelps, C. H. (2011). The diagnosis of dementia due to Alzheimer's disease: Recommendations from the National Institute on Aging-Alzheimer's Association workgroups on diagnostic guidelines for Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's & Dementia, 7(3), 263-269.