Question: I have been diagnosed using an MRI with small vessel ischemic disease and white matter disease. Can you explain those illnesses?

Dr. Hibberd's answer:
This really means a long standing decreased blood flow within the small arteries in the brain. This is picked up in MRI scans and may occur on otherwise normal persons too. It is commonly seen in scans of older people, with high blood pressure and or diabetes, migraine sufferers. Some studies have reported this finding could also increase risk for dementia, so it is best to consult with a specialist who will obtain a detailed history and follow up your case.