|
|
| Line 1: |
Line 1: |
| '''For patient information click [[Memory loss (patient information)|here]]'''
| | #redirect[[Amnesia]] |
| | |
| {{SI}}
| |
| | |
| '''Editor(s)-in-Chief:''' [[C. Michael Gibson]], M.S.,M.D. [mailto:mgibson@perfuse.org] Phone:617-632-7753; '''Angela Botts''', M.D., Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Geriatric Medicine ; {{ADI}}
| |
| | |
| ==Overivew==
| |
| Memory loss can be partial or total, and it is normal when it comes with [[Ageing|aging]]. Sudden memory loss is usually a result of [[Traumatic brain injury|brain trauma]] and it may be permanent or temporary. When it is caused by medical conditions such as [[Alzheimers]], the memory loss is gradual and tends to be permanent.
| |
| | |
| Brain trauma is not the only factor that can cause sudden memory loss. It may appear as a side effect of [[statin|statin drugs]] that are used as treatment for those who have [[hypercholesterolemia]]. Major causes of sudden loss of memory are [[stroke]]s. Other causes are long lasting and recurrent illnesses such as [[meningitis]] or [[epilepsy]]. Either temporary or permanent memory loss can also result from chemical imbalances, exposure to toxic substances, [[allergies]], [[vitamin]] deficiencies (such as those caused by [[alcoholism]]), or extreme mental illness ([[Major Depressive Disorder]]).
| |
| | |
| ==Symptoms==
| |
| Symptoms of memory loss vary from person to person, but can include: forgetting dates and names; beginning a task but then forgetting the purpose of it; getting lost easily; repeating things over and over again, sometimes in the same conversation; and having difficulties performing familiar tasks such as driving or baking. They usually occur gradually and may vary in intensity depending on the cause of the condition.
| |
| | |
| Confusion or decreased [[alertness]] may be the first symptom of memory loss and also of serious illness, particularly in older adults.<ref>[http://health.yahoo.com/alzheimers-overview/confusion-memory-loss-and-altered-alertness/healthwise--confu.html Confusion, Memory Loss, and Altered Alertness] Retrieved on 2010-03-10</ref>
| |
| | |
| The most worrisome symptoms are not those related to things that people forget to do.{{Opinion|date=February 2012}} Some patients may have problems mixing up or remembering words for objects or can have trouble understanding or taking part in a conversation. Being unable to make a simple decision can suggest that something is not working as it should and [[medical advice]] should be sought.
| |
| | |
| Whether an individual suffers from memory loss is not decided only based on one's symptoms. In order to diagnose the condition a doctor will obtain a detailed medical history of the patient. The patient will also undergo several [[Neuropsychology|neuropsychological]] tests that will focus on his or her memory functions. Several other medical exams such as an [[electroencephalography]], an [[Magnetic resonance imaging|MRI]], or a [[X-ray computed tomography|CT scan]] can be performed in order to establish an accurate diagnosis.
| |
| | |
| The main type of memory loss is [[short-term memory]]. Short-term memory refers to memories that last for a few minutes .
| |
| | |
| ==Causes==
| |
| ===Common causes===
| |
| | |
| *Side effects of Medication: Many drugs can cause cognitive problems and memory loss as a side effects, common in adults. Common drugs that affect memory and brain function include sleeping pills, antihistamines, blood pressure and arthritis medication, antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and painkillers.
| |
| *Depression: Depression mimics the signs of memory loss. It is a common problem in older adults—especially if one is less social and active than they used to be or if one has recently experienced a number of major life changes (retirement, a serious medical diagnosis, the loss of a loved one, moving away from home).
| |
| *Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Vitamin B12 protects neurons and is vital to healthy brain functioning. A lack of B12 can cause permanent damage to the brain.
| |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| ===Organ system based===
| |
| {|style="width:80%; height:100px" border="1"
| |
| |style="height:100px"; style="width:25%" border="1" bgcolor="LightSteelBlue" | '''Cardiovascular'''
| |
| |style="height:100px"; style="width:75%" border="1" bgcolor="Beige" | No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Chemical / poisoning'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Dermatologic'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Drug Side Effect'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Ear Nose Throat'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Endocrine'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Environmental'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Gastroenterologic'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Genetic'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Hematologic'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Iatrogenic'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Infectious Disease'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Musculoskeletal / Ortho'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Neurologic'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Nutritional / Metabolic'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Obstetric/Gynecologic'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Oncologic'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Opthalmologic'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Overdose / Toxicity'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Psychiatric'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Pulmonary'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Renal / Electrolyte'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Rheum / Immune / Allergy'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Sexual'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Trauma'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Urologic'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Dental'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |-bgcolor="LightSteelBlue"
| |
| | '''Miscellaneous'''
| |
| |bgcolor="Beige"| No underlying causes
| |
| |-
| |
| |}
| |
| | |
| ===Alphabetical order===
| |
| | |
| ==Prevention==
| |
| The most common preventable cause of memory loss is brain trauma, especially trauma resulting from [[head injury]]. Preventative measures such as wearing a seat belt while driving or a helmet while biking, can reduce the risk of head injury while participating in dangerous activities.<ref>[http://www.suddenmemoryloss.com/ Sudden Memory Loss Causes and Diagnosis] Retrieved on 2010-03-10</ref>
| |
| | |
| Eating [[nutrition|nutritious]] foods and reducing [[Stress (biology)|stress]] may help prevent memory loss. In addition, it may be helpful to avoid risk factors such as alcohol abuse and exposure to toxic chemicals. As [[hypertension|high blood pressure]] increases the risk for stroke, and therefore memory loss, blood pressure should be kept under control. Lifestyle adjustments such as smoking cessation and exercise can also further reduce the risk for stroke and brain trauma.
| |
| | |
| Some specialists recommend that patients drink enough [[water]] for better [[Rehydration|hydration]]. [[Sleep deprivation]] and stress are also thought to impact the proper functioning of the brain cells, so it is important to get enough rest and avoid stressful activities.
| |
| | |
| [[Socializing]] is also believed to be beneficial for individuals who may develop memory loss.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.healthynewage.com/memory.html| title=Information About Memory Loss - Causes, Symptoms and Supplementation|date=|accessdate= 2010-06-25}}</ref>
| |
| | |
| Patients who experience memory loss as a result of aging may keep their brain cells healthy and active with exercise and [[dietary supplements]]. However, although some dietary choices and lifestyle changes are suggested, it has not yet been proven to what extent these may reduce the risk of memory loss, especially that caused by aging. Dietary supplements that may be recommended include multivitamins and mineral complexes, [[boron]], [[lecithin]], [[garlic]], [[gingko]], [[vitamin B complex]], [[zinc]], [[copper]], [[acetylcholine]], DMAE, and [[vitamin C]] with [[bioflavonoid]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.healthynewage.com/memory.html| title=Information About Memory Loss - Causes, Symptoms and Supplementation|date=|accessdate= 2010-06-25}}</ref><!-- [Removed the following as being unsourced, mostly duplicative of earlier portion of paragraph, and extremely poorly written (likely by a nonnative speaker of English).] Each of these supplements may help in a way or another in maintaining the cells of the brain vigorous and healthy. For instance, garlic is thought to be the brain cell protector and which is considered helpful in cases of memory loss caused by aging. Also, multivitamin and mineral complexes provide the necessary nutrients for the body and brain cells and remove the harmful [[free radicals]]. Lecithin is well known for its special properties of improving memory as well as boron, a substance that may enhance the memory function of the brain. Gingko and vitamin C with bioflavonoid are effective in increasing the [[blood flow]] to the brain which is in the end beneficial for the cells and therefore the memory.{{Citation needed|date=September 2011}}-->
| |
| | |
| Patients whose memory loss is bothersome to the extent that it becomes an issue are encouraged to establish a routine and follow it. Making lists and associations, keeping a detailed [[calendar]] as well as always putting important objects in the same place might also help them in remembering more easily and faster.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/seniors/common-older/124.html| title=Memory Loss With Aging: What's Normal, What's Not|date=|accessdate= 2010-06-25}}</ref> It has been brought{{By whom|date=February 2012}} to attention{{whose?}} that people who develop mild symptoms of memory loss are more likely to prevent the worsening of the condition if they train their mind by playing [[strategy games]], [[puzzle]], [[word games]] or number puzzles and reading. Basically, stimulating the brain can help patients slow down the processes that cause memory loss.
| |
| | |
| Memory loss among seniors is not inevitable, but is a normal occurrence for many as the brain slows down. This is not the same thing as dementia. Mental functions to do normal activities you have always done, life experience, common sense, and the ability to form reasonable judgments and arguments are not affected.<ref>[http://helpguide.org/life/prevent_memory_loss.htm/]</ref>
| |
| | |
| Exercise, especially [[aerobic exercise]], helps combat or restore memory loss. Studies indicate that exercise lessens stress, increases blood flow, and stabilizes and deepens sleep patterns. Even walking a few times a week helps fight memory loss.<ref>[http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/7-brain-boosters-to-prevent-memory-loss/]</ref>
| |
| | |
| ==Treatment==
| |
| Memory loss can't be treated unless it is caused by a reversible condition. The treatment is greatly dependent on the primary cause of the condition. When memory loss is a symptom of a more severe disease, it may be reversed as soon as the underlying condition is identified and cured. Memory loss due to aging cannot be cured, but the symptoms may be improved by following the prevention measures.
| |
| | |
| Treating mild cases of memory loss may consist of herbal medications or a change in lifestyle.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.suddenmemoryloss.net/treatment.html| title=Memory Loss Treatment|date=|accessdate= 2010-06-25}}</ref> The other dietary supplements along with good quality and long sleep and avoiding potential risk factors may also improve the general status of the patient.
| |
| | |
| Family support plays an important role in treating memory loss. Family members are usually encouraged to take special orientation classes on how to cope with their sick relatives and how to help them improve their condition.
| |
| | |
| ==Pathology==
| |
| The memory is affected by the damage that may occur in the different parts of the brain such as [[medial temporal lobe]], [[hippocampus]], cortex and frontal lobes. Injuring any of these areas may lead to specific disruptions in the processes of acquiring and restoring memory. For instance, damage to the medial temporal lobe and hippocampus can devastate the ability to acquire new [[declarative memory]] whereas damage to the storage areas in cortex can disrupt retrieval of old memories and interfere with acquisition of new memories.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.memorylossonline.com/glossary/memory.html| title=Memory|date=|accessdate= 2010-06-25}}</ref>
| |
| | |
| ==References==
| |
| {{reflist|2}}
| |
| | |
| [[Category:Memory disorders]]
| |
| [[Category:Signs and symptoms]]
| |
| | |
| [[fr:Perte de mémoire]]
| |
| [[hu:Emlékezetzavar]]
| |
| | |
| ==Causes==
| |
| * [[Alzheimer's disease]] is an illness which can cause mild to severe memory loss.
| |
| * [[Parkinsonism|Parkinson's disease]] is a genetic defect which can always result in memory loss.
| |
| * [[Huntington's disease]] is an inherited disease which can result in memory loss.
| |
| * [[Chemotherapy]] using [[cytotoxicity | cytotoxic drugs]] to treat cancer
| |
| * Stress related activities are another factor which can result in memory loss.
| |
| * It is also caused by [[concussion | concussion]].
| |
| | |
| ==See also==
| |
| *[[Amnesia]]
| |
| *[[Memory and aging]]
| |
| *Memory bias
| |
| | |
| | |
| {{Geriatrics}}
| |
| {{SIB}}
| |
| | |
| [[Category:Gerontology]]
| |
| [[Category:Psychiatry]]
| |
| | |
| | |
| {{WikiDoc Help Menu}}
| |
| {{WikiDoc Sources}}
| |