But there are ways to combat it.

In a world full of uncertainty and challenges, its pretty common to experienceanxiety.

The subjects were followed for 10 years.

A woman lays on a couch, resting her head on her hand, appearing relaxed and thoughtful

How are anxiety and dementia linked?

While an anxious moment can be a normal reaction to a stressful situation, ongoing anxiety is problematic.

Its tied to both cardiovascular disease and brain cell damage, according to the study.

Person with long hair and wearing a sleeveless top sits by a window, leaning their head on their knees, looking down contemplatively. No others in image

Both of these issues can put you at higher risk of developing dementia.

Gregory Bix, the director of the Clinical Neuroscience Research Center at Tulane University in New Orleans.

Bix is not affiliated with the study.

A person sits on a bed in a modern living room, head in hand, appearing distressed. Nearby are a table, a remote, a plant, a glass of water, and eyeglasses

Mental health and well-being affect the heart, which in turn affects the brain, Bix said.

Its all a cycle.

Participants could have experienced anxiety before that four-week measuring period or after they took the test.

Therefore, theres a chance theres some data that isnt accounted for.

Anxiety and dementia are real issues for many people.

But also remember that dementia risk isnt completely in your control.

The biggest key is recognizing the signs of its development, Bix noted.

Early detection of memory changes will help doctors slow down the progression of the disease.

Heres how to identify and limit your anxiety.

Ask yourself, What am I doing right now when I start to notice my anxiety peaking?

What thoughts are going through my mind?

Is there anything specific that Im experiencing right before onset?

Then, do another midday brief body scan to determine if any feelings of anxiety are appearing.

to identify your triggers.

Muldrew also recommends setting designated five or 10-minute worry breaks.

But once these 10 minutes expire, Im leaving that there.

Lastly, dont expect all of your anxiety to disappear after trying out these strategies once or twice.

Just know that working hard to reduce your anxiety is worth it.