Forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging. As people get
older, changes occur in all parts of the body, including the brain. As a result, some
people may notice that it takes longer to learn new things, they don’t remember
information as well as they did, or they lose things like their glasses. These usually
are signs of mild forgetfulness, not serious memory problems. Some memory problems are
related to health issues that may be treatable. For example, medication side effects,
vitamin B12 deficiency, chronic alcoholism, tumors or infections in the brain, or blood
clots in the brain can cause memory loss or possibly dementia .Some thyroid, kidney, or
liver disorders also can lead to memory loss. A doctor should treat serious medical
conditions like these as soon as possible.Emotional problems, such as stress, anxiety,
or depression, can make a person more forgetful and can be mistaken for dementia. For
instance, someone who has recently retired or who is coping with the death of a spouse,
relative, or friend may feel sad, lonely, worried, or bored. Trying to deal with these
life changes leaves some people confused or forgetful. The confusion and forgetfulness
caused by emotions usually are temporary and go away when the feelings fade. The
emotional problems can be eased by supportive friends and family, but if these feelings
last for a long time, it is important to get help from a doctor or counselor. Treatment
may include counseling, medication, or both.
A complete
medical exam for memory loss should review the person’s medical history, including the
use of prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diet, past medical problems, and
general health. A correct diagnosis depends on accurate details, so in addition to
talking with the patient, the doctor might ask a family member, caregiver, or close
friend for information.
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