Dementia is a broad term that is used to describe a number of symptoms associated with a decline in cognitive functions. It is often seen in elderly individuals, but can occur in any age group. The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer's disease. Eliquis is a drug commonly used to reduce the risk of stroke or blood clot for people with atrial fibrillation. But does Eliquis cause dementia?
What Is Eliquis?
Eliquis is a prescription medication used to reduce the risk of stroke or blood clots in people with atrial fibrillation (a type of irregular heartbeat). It does this by preventing the formation of blood clots in the heart and by reducing the risk of a stroke by keeping blood clots from forming in the brain. Eliquis is a blood thinner, which means it prevents clots from forming, rather than dissolving existing clots.
Does Eliquis Cause Dementia?
At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that Eliquis can cause dementia. While it is true that Eliquis can increase the risk of bleeding in some people, the risk is relatively low and does not appear to be linked to any form of dementia. In fact, studies have shown that people taking Eliquis for atrial fibrillation are less likely to suffer a stroke than those not taking it.
Other Potential Causes of Dementia
While Eliquis does not appear to cause dementia, there are other potential causes. These include head injury, stroke, drug and alcohol abuse, certain infections, and certain genetic disorders. Older age is also a risk factor, and the risk increases with age. Additionally, Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia are believed to have a genetic component.
Potential Side Effects of Eliquis
There are a few potential side effects associated with Eliquis, including an increased risk of bleeding. If you experience any of the following symptoms while taking Eliquis, you should contact your doctor immediately: easy bruising or bleeding, unusual bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in the stools or urine, dizziness or severe headache, or sudden vision changes. Additionally, Eliquis may cause other side effects, so it is important to check with your doctor to discuss all potential risks and benefits of taking this medication.
Preventing Dementia
While there is no surefire way to prevent dementia, there are certain steps you can take to reduce your risk. Eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can help reduce your risk of developing dementia. It is also important to keep your brain active by engaging in activities that challenge your mind, such as reading, puzzles, and learning a new skill. In addition, getting enough sleep and avoiding alcohol and drug abuse can reduce your risk of developing dementia.
When to See a Doctor
If you are experiencing any symptoms of dementia, such as memory loss or difficulty concentrating, it is important to see your doctor immediately. Additionally, if you are taking Eliquis and experience any side effects, it is important to contact your doctor right away. While there is no evidence that Eliquis causes dementia, it is important to monitor for any changes in your health that may be related to the medication.
Conclusion
At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that Eliquis can cause dementia. While Eliquis can increase the risk of bleeding in some people, it does not appear to be linked to any form of dementia. However, it is important to watch for any side effects associated with Eliquis and to see a doctor if you are experiencing any symptoms of dementia. Additionally, there are certain lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk of developing dementia.