Cerebral atrophy, also known as brain atrophy, is a disorder in which your neurons or brain cells are lost. As a result, it destroys the connections between these parts and affects overall communication. There are two main categories, including generalized atrophy and focal atrophy. Both of them can be a result of aging or some medical conditions. Life expectancy in people with this health issue can vary greatly, depending on the underlying trigger. In this guide, we will show you the 7 most common causes of brain atrophy in the general public.
Stroke
Stroke is one of the most common causes of brain atrophy in many people. It occurs when blood flow to some areas of your brain is unexpectedly interrupted due to bleeds or ruptures. Without the provision of oxygen and nutrients, neurons or brain cells in these regions gradually die. This results in the loss of some basic functions that are controlled by these brain areas, such as speech and movement. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stroke is the 5th leading cause of death in the US. Since this is a life-threatening condition, immediate medical attention is important to prevent further complications. There are four main categories of stroke, including subarachnoid, intracerebral, thrombotic, and embolic. Some common risk factors for this condition might be inactivity, alcohol consumption, smoking, family history, aging, and an unhealthy diet that is high in cholesterol, salt, or fat. [1]
