Fact 4: Impact on Physical Abilities
Cerebral amyloid angiopathy’s effect isn’t restricted solely to cognitive aspects. The disease also impacts the physical abilities of individuals, often creating a substantial hurdle in their daily lives. This influence on motor functions adds another layer to the complexity of managing CAA, and it merits a closer look.
One of the key physical symptoms often observed in CAA patients is a decline in balance and coordination. Balance issues, while potentially subtle at first, can grow progressively worse over time. This deterioration increases patients’ risk of falls, an especially concerning prospect for elderly individuals for whom recovery can be a lengthy process. Thus, prompt identification and management of balance issues are crucial, underscoring the need for regular physical assessments as part of the treatment regimen.
Alongside balance and coordination problems, CAA patients may also experience hemiparesis, or weakness and numbness on one side of the body. Hemiparesis is particularly challenging as it can drastically affect a person’s ability to perform routine tasks independently, leading to a decrease in self-sufficiency and overall quality of life. It’s essential for care providers to be attuned to such changes in physical abilities, enabling appropriate and timely interventions.
Interestingly, unlike the steady cognitive decline usually seen in CAA, physical symptoms often follow a somewhat episodic pattern. Patients might experience periods of symptom exacerbation, followed by periods of stabilization or even temporary improvement. This episodic pattern is likely due to transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or “mini-strokes,” caused by the amyloid protein buildup disrupting normal blood flow in the brain vessels.
Each patient’s experience with these physical symptoms will be unique, mirroring the variability in disease manifestation that is a hallmark of CAA. The extent and rate of progression of physical symptoms can vary significantly, requiring personalized care strategies. Regular physical therapy sessions can help manage these symptoms, improve mobility, and increase independence. Moreover, depending on the severity of physical symptoms, patients may also benefit from assistive devices such as walkers or wheelchairs. (4)
