It occurs when small, deep arteries in the brain become blocked, usually due to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or microclots. Each event leaves a small lesion—and, over time, these lesions accumulate.
The result? Gradual impairment of balance, memory, and motor control—often before you even realize it.
The good news: controlling factors like blood pressure and cholesterol can slow down this process.
The 7 Most Ignored Warning Signs
This is the most ignored sign. Many people believe it’s “just old age”.
Short steps, a feeling of feet “stuck” to the ground, unexplained falls — all of these can indicate a type of vascular parkinsonism caused by brain lesions.
If you or someone close to you is falling more than usual, don’t ignore it.
#3: Urinary urgency or incontinence
Frequent urination or loss of control may be linked to changes in the brain, not just the bladder.
#2: Memory problems and behavioral changes
Difficulty concentrating, slow thinking, and loss of interest in activities can be signs of vascular cognitive impairment.
