Cerebral insufficiency is a condition that can occur at any age but is most common in the elderly, particularly among those engaged in intellectual work. The primary cause is atherosclerosis of the brain’s supplying arteries.
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| Electroencephalogram for patients at the Geriatric Institute (Image: TTO) |
Early signs that patients often notice include a vague feeling of changes in both physical and mental states. They may appear older, walk more slowly, and show decreased vitality. Their personalities may gradually change, with past interests now feeling dull, and they may prefer quiet places for reflection. As the condition worsens, the following symptoms may appear:
Headaches are a common symptom (occurring in 90% of cases) and often the earliest to manifest. The headaches can be diffuse, creating a sensation of pressure and heaviness in the head, especially when engaging in extensive thinking. Patients often have a habit of rubbing their foreheads or lightly tapping their temples.
Dizziness (occurring in 87% of cases) may be experienced as a sense of unsteadiness when walking or standing, and a feeling akin to seasickness. Some patients may experience visual disturbances, especially when transitioning from lying to standing positions. Dizziness can cause patients to feel as if the environment is spinning around them, and changes in posture may force them to lie down with their eyes closed, as movement can trigger nausea. These dizzy spells can last from a few minutes to several days.
Abnormal sensations are unusual feelings the patient perceives, such as tingling or numbness in the fingertips, and sensations resembling insects crawling on the skin. Some patients report pain along the ribs, neck pain following the pathways along the nape, and cold sensations along the spine. There may also be persistent sounds in the ears, like cicadas or grinding noises, which can disrupt daily activities, sleep, and overall health.
Sleep disturbances are very common and characterized by their persistence, discomfort, and difficulty in treatment. Symptoms can vary widely; some individuals may experience insomnia, while others have irregular sleep patterns, such as sleeping well at night but being restless at midnight and dozing during the day.
Attention disorders: Patients often struggle to shift their attention from one object to another. This can gradually lead to both physical and mental fatigue. Previously easily received external stimuli now require significant concentration. Patients may become forgetful, switching topics abruptly mid-conversation, and exhibit a markedly reduced ability to focus.
Emotional disturbances: Patients frequently feel anxious and unable to fully control their reactions over trivial matters, responding strongly despite recognizing their reactions may be inappropriate. This can lead to personality changes, making them more irritable and prone to feeling sorry for themselves and complaining about various issues.
Changes in personality: Individuals who were once impulsive and hot-tempered may become quarrelsome. Those who were previously gentle and content may develop a tendency toward melancholy and insecurity. Previously cautious individuals may become overly suspicious, and those who were frugal may become miserly and overly meticulous.
The above are some manifestations that patients and their families can recognize. However, regular health check-ups are essential for timely prevention and treatment, avoiding complications such as cerebral infarction.
