Why memory deteriorates

Mild memory loss tends to increase with age and is generally no cause for concern. Noting what type of memory loss you have will help your doctor determine its cause. Many causes of memory loss are treatable if diagnosed early.

If not diagnosed and treated, some illnesses will progress and make treatment more difficult. As you age, you may find that you have memory lapses from time to time. You may forget the name of someone you just met, or you may misplace things more often. Perhaps you rely more on lists and calendars to remember chores and appointments. If your memory is not as sharp as it once was, a few simple adjustments can help you with your daily activities. Watching someone you love struggle with memory loss can be difficult.

Depending on the severity of their condition, there are many ways you can help. For example:. Progressive memory loss is a symptom of dementia.

Other symptoms include difficulty with reasoning, judgment, language, and thinking skills. People with dementia can also exhibit behavioral problems and mood swings. Dementia usually starts gradually and gets more noticeable as it progresses.

Long-term memories are usually stronger and last longer than memories of recent events. Although it can strike earlier, this progressive disease generally affects people over age Consult your doctor if memory loss is interfering with your daily activities, threatening your safety, progressing, or accompanied by other physical symptoms.

Often, memory loss that disrupts your life is one of the first or more-recognizable signs of dementia. Other early signs might include:.

Diseases that cause progressive damage to the brain — and consequently result in dementia — include:. The disease process pathology of each of these conditions differs somewhat.

Memory impairment isn't always the first sign, and the type of memory problems varies. It's also possible to have more than one type of dementia, known as mixed dementia. This involves a notable decline in at least one area of thinking skills, such as memory, that's greater than the changes of aging and less than those of dementia.

Having mild cognitive impairment doesn't prevent you from performing everyday tasks and being socially engaged. Researchers and physicians are still learning about mild cognitive impairment. For many people, the condition eventually progresses to dementia due to Alzheimer's disease or another disorder causing dementia. Other people's memory loss doesn't progress much, and they don't develop the spectrum of symptoms associated with dementia. Many medical problems can cause memory loss or other dementia-like symptoms.

Most of these conditions can be treated. Your doctor can screen you for conditions that cause reversible memory impairment. If you're concerned about memory loss, see your doctor. There are tests to determine the degree of memory impairment and diagnose the cause. Your doctor is likely to ask you questions. It's good to have a family member or friend along to answer some questions based on observations.

Questions might include:. In addition to a general physical exam, your doctor will likely conduct question-and-answer tests to judge your memory and other thinking skills. He or she may also order blood tests and brain-imaging tests that can help identify reversible causes of memory problems and dementia-like symptoms.

You might be referred to a specialist in diagnosing dementia or memory disorders, such as a neurologist, psychiatrist, psychologist or geriatrician.

Coming to terms with memory loss and the possible onset of dementia can be difficult. Some people try to hide memory problems, and some family members or friends compensate for a person's loss of memory, sometimes without being aware of how much they've adapted to the impairment. Getting a prompt diagnosis is important, even if it's challenging. Identifying a reversible cause of memory impairment enables you to get appropriate treatment.

Also, an early diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder is beneficial because you can:. Your doctor can help you identify community resources and organizations, such as the Alzheimer's Association, to help you cope with memory loss and other dementia symptoms.

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Left untreated, stress and anxiety can contribute to memory loss and forgetfulness. But if you focus on recharging your batteries when life feels overwhelming, chances are your memory will be restored. Not everyone who struggles with depression experiences it in the same way. However, it can affect your ability to concentrate, remember details, stay organized and make decisions. Seeking professional help for — and treating — depression can positively affect many areas of your life, including your memory.

Thyroid problems. Your thyroid gland controls your metabolism, which can also affect your memory. If you have hypothyroidism an underactive thyroid gland , your body processes slow down. This can make you feel sluggish and forgetful. If you have hyperthyroidism an overactive thyroid gland , your body processes speed up. This can make you feel confused and disorganized. A simple blood test can determine if you have thyroid problems. Vitamin B12 deficiency. Adequate amounts of vitamin B12 can help protect your brain against memory loss and forgetfulness.

Good sources of vitamin B12 include low-fat dairy products, meat and poultry, eggs and seafood. As you age, your absorption of nutrients slows down, making it difficult for your system to get the essential vitamins it needs to function properly. If you are vitamin B12 deficient, you can receive monthly injections to help you stay healthy.

Alcohol abuse. Drinking too much alcohol can interfere with short-term memory, even after the effects of alcohol have worn off. One drink is generally defined as 1.

Many prescription and over-the-counter medications, or combinations of medications, can affect your memory by causing confusion or drowsiness.

This can make it difficult to pay close attention to new information. Common medications that affect your memory and brain function include antihistamines, antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, muscle relaxants, sleeping pills and pain medications.

If you suspect your medication is affecting your memory, you should talk to you healthcare provider. Strategies for Preventing Memory Loss and Forgetfulness The same strategies that contribute to greater health and well-being also help you develop a strong mind and memory. Here are steps you can take to prevent memory loss and forgetfulness: Exercise regularly. Physical fitness and mental fitness go hand-in-hand.

Exercise is good for your lungs, and research shows that people who have good lung function tend to have sharper memories and brain function. Regular exercise also helps reduce your risk for diabetes , high cholesterol , high blood pressure and stroke — illnesses that can lead to memory loss. So, take a walk around the block, use the stairs instead of the elevator, take an exercise class or learn a new sport like tennis.

These can all help protect against memory loss and forgetfulness. Maintain a balanced diet.