Sometimes, memory problems are dismissed as being just part of getting older, but they can be a subtle sign of something more. New research from the American Academy of Neurology shows that memory problems in middle age may be related to high blood pressure:

High blood pressure is linked to memory problems in people over 45, according to research published in the August 25, 2009, print issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.

The study found that people with high diastolic blood pressure, which is the bottom number of a blood pressure reading, were more likely to have cognitive impairment, or problems with their memory and thinking skills, than people with normal diastolic readings.

For every 10 point increase in the reading, the odds of a person having cognitive problems was seven percent higher. The results were valid after adjusting for other factors that could affect cognitive abilities, such as age, smoking status, exercise level, education, diabetes or high cholesterol.

High blood pressure (hypertension) is defined as repeatedly elevated blood pressure exceeding 140 over 90. It’s called the “silent killer” because there are no symptoms. Diagnosis is made by having your blood pressure checked by a professional.

There are many physical changes that come with aging and high blood pressure in particular can cause many problems. Preventing and treating high blood pressure at it’s onset may prevent damage to brain vessels that may contribute to dementia later in life.

High blood pressure is the number one risk factor for stroke. Consult your doctor or other health care provider and get yours checked regularly.

–Elizabeth Thiekle