Cause of Memory
Loss
What are some other causes of memory problems?
Many things other than aging can cause memory problems. These include
depression, other illnesses, dementia (severe problems with memory and
thinking, such as Alzheimer's disease), side effects of drugs, strokes, a
head injury and alcoholism.
How can I tell if my memory problems are serious?
A memory problem is serious when it affects your daily living. If you
sometimes forget names, you're probably okay. But you may have a more
serious problem if you have trouble remembering how to do things you've
done many times before, getting to a place you've been to often, or doing
things that use steps, like following a recipe.
Another difference between normal memory problems and dementia is that
normal memory loss doesn't get much worse over time. Dementia gets much
worse over several months to several years
It may be hard to figure out on your own if you have a serious problem.
Talk to your family doctor about any concerns you have. Your doctor may be
able to help you if your memory problems are caused by a medicine you're
taking or by depression.
How does Alzheimer's disease change memory?
Alzheimer's disease starts by changing the recent memory. At first, a
person with Alzheimer's disease will remember even small details of his or
her distant past but not be able to remember recent events or
conversations. Over time, the disease affects all parts of the memory.
Alzheimer's disease isn't a normal part of aging and it's less common
than some people think. Only 10% of people over age 65 have Alzheimer's
disease, but this number increases to nearly 50% of people over age 85.
Memory problems that aren't part of normal aging
- Forgetting things much more often than you used to
- Forgetting how to do things you've done many times before
- Trouble learning new things
- Repeating phrases or stories in the same conversation
- Trouble making choices or handling money
- Not being able to keep track of what happens each day
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