Illnesses that cause memory loss

Losing your memory, whether for a short or sudden duration or permanently is a terrifying experience. Though most cases of memory loss are due to accidents or brain trauma, certain diseases can cause a loss in memory as a complication or symptom. Getting a prompt diagnosis and appropriate care is important.

Eventually the brain cells die, causing tissue loss (see illustration). In imaging scans, brain shrinkage is usually first noticeable in the hippocampus, which plays a central role in memory function.

Memory may gradually improve over time. The hallmark symptom of Alzheimer’s is difficulty in recalling new information. Knowing the symptoms of mental illnesses and disorders can help you understand the causes of your memory loss. If you have difficulty remembering things, your mind may make the leap to Alzheimer’s disease – but that’s not the only cause of memory loss.

UTIs can cause a sudden onset of symptoms. A faltering thyroid can affect memory (as well as disturb sleep and cause depression, both of which can be causes of forgetfulness). A simple blood test can tell if your thyroid is doing its job properly.

For example, certain drugs like sedatives can cause partial memory loss. Many people worry about their memory. While aging does attribute to memory loss, certain neurological conditions can result in more severe memory problems: 1. Mild memory loss tends to increase with age and is generally no cause for concern. But progressive memory loss due to illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease can be serious. Consult your doctor if.

There are a few diseases that can cause memory loss , but there are also several minor causes of memory loss. Tests can be done by a medical professional to ensure a correct diagnosis of the patient. Such memory loss is due to other diseases. To determine a cause , your health care provider will ask if the problem came on suddenly or slowly. Many areas of the brain help you create and retrieve memories.

A problem in any of these areas can lead to memory loss. It becomes difficult to maintain focus, sharp memory and clarity. Low thyroid function is a common cause of brain fog, depression (1), difficulty concentrating and short term memory loss.

Hypothyroidism is often associated with mood disturbances and cognitive impairment, implying that thyroid hormones are critical for normal brain functioning.

How they can cause memory loss : About percent of adults taking TCAs report some degree of memory impairment and about percent report having difficulty concentrating. Depending on the cause , memory loss may have either a sudden or gradual onset, and memory loss may be permanent or temporary. Understanding common memory loss is an important first step in determining if your forgetfulness might indicate a more serious condition.

Sometimes it’s the drug treatment for a health condition, not the condition itself, that causes memory loss. There are many prescription drugs that list short-term memory loss as a side effect. Certain medical conditions can cause serious memory problems.

These problems should go away once a person gets treatment. If the cause of memory loss is nutritional deficiencies then intake of nutritional supplements helps in treating the memory loss. If Alzheimer’s disease is causing memory loss , then there are specific medicines available to treat memory problems which are due to Alzheimer’s disease.