Everyone forgets things from time to time, and memory loss is a common part of aging, but someones there are other factors that can affect memory.
The most common causes of memory loss are:
- Medications
Medications such as antidepressants, antihistamines, relaxants and others have been known to interfere with memory or cause memory loss. The list includes prescription and over-the-counter medications.
- Illness or medical condition
Stroke can often cause short term memory loss. This is because when a stroke occurs, the blood supply to the brain is stopped. Dementia is the progressive loss of memory, the most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease.
- Smoking
Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen that gets to the brain and, in turn, may cause memory loss.
- Sleep deprivation
Getting enough sleep is very crucial to brain function. Not getting enough quality sleep can cause fatigue, which can interfere with your ability to remember information.
- Nutritional deficiency
Having a balanced diet, including high quality proteins and fats, is important for proper brain function. A lack of vitamins B12 and B1 can specifically cause memory loss.
- Stress or depression
Depression, stress and anxiety can all get in the way of concentration. When your mind is overstimulated or distracted, it is more difficult to remember things.
So, how do you treat memory loss? Well, treatment depends on the cause. Memory loss caused by medication can usually be reversed with a change in medication, and memory loss caused by nutritional deficiency can be resolved with the addition of supplements or a change in diet. There are also treatments available for specific conditions, for example there are medications for memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s.
If you’re experiencing memory problems, talk to your doctor to get a timely diagnosis and appropriate care.