Brief Answer:
Please find details below

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX,
Thanks for writing in to us.

I have read through your query in detail.
Please find my observations below.

1. The brain is supposed to be made of outer grey matter and inner white matter. In the white matter area the nerve cells are found in higher concentration. White matter ischemia occurs when there is decreased blood supply to the area and this happens more in people with hypertension and those who take alcohol and smoke regularly.

2. At the age of 74 years it is expected to have shrinking of the brain and the markings on the surface become more prominent. This is called brain atrophy and is age related development. It is not a disease.

3. The symptoms of white matter ischemia and brain atrophy are not too specific and might vary in every person. It might cause decreased cognition and memory in some while there might be unstable gait with mild paucity of movement in some. Few patients might also have vertigo and dizziness. These are consequences to mild decrease in blood supply to the deeper area of the brain. Aricept is used to treat mild to moderate dementia.

Hope this answers your question. Please feel free to correct any oversight in my interpretation of your problems and discuss them in detail as per your requirements.

Hope your query is answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.

Regards,
Dr.Vivek

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