Understanding Memory Loss: Why and what to do
If you’re worried about your memory, it’s important to speak with your doctor. Discussing your symptoms and undergoing evaluations, such as cognitive screening tests or an MRI, can help identify the underlying cause, says Gale, a memory expert. Many factors can contribute to memory issues, and addressing these concerns can often lead to improvement.
Here are some common reasons for memory problems and potential solutions:
Stress, Anxiety, ADHD and Depression
Stress and anxiety can impair your ability to focus and remember information. Without proper attention, memory retention becomes difficult.
This issue is particularly common among individuals juggling work and home responsibilities, especially when paired with poor sleep. Reducing stress can often improve memory. Chronic stress, however, can lead to depression, which may further impact brain function. Counseling and medication can help alleviate these symptoms, notes the National Institute on Aging.
ADHD can also contribute to memory challenges, particularly with working memory—the ability to hold and use information for immediate tasks, like solving a math problem. Addressing these conditions through treatment can improve memory and focus.
Sleep Problems
Sleep issues, such as insomnia or sleep apnea, are strongly linked to memory loss. Sleep apnea, which causes repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, can particularly affect spatial navigational memory—your ability to recall directions or locate items like keys.
Sleep apnea disrupts oxygen delivery to the brain, causing stress and potential memory impairment. Treatment for sleep disorders, such as using CPAP machines for sleep apnea, can improve memory and cognitive function.
Medication Side Effects
Certain medications can cause forgetfulness or memory problems. These include:
- Antihistamines
- Sleeping pills containing diphenhydramine (e.g., Benadryl)
- Anti-anxiety drugs
- Antidepressants
- Anti-seizure medications
- Blood pressure drugs
- Cholesterol-lowering statins
- Diabetes medications
- Parkinson’s disease treatments
If you suspect your medication is affecting your memory, consult your doctor about possible adjustments.
Nutritional Deficiencies
A deficiency in vitamin B12, essential for nerve function, can lead to confusion and memory loss. Adults need approximately 2.4 micrograms of B12 daily, found in foods like dairy, meat, fish, or fortified cereals.
Risk factors for B12 deficiency include:
- Being over 75
- Digestive disorders
- Strict vegan or vegetarian diets
- Certain medications (e.g., metformin or proton pump inhibitors)
- Sjögren’s syndrome
- Excessive alcohol consumption
Addressing these deficiencies through diet or supplements can help improve memory.
Silent Strokes
Memory issues can result from silent strokes—strokes that occur without noticeable symptoms, according to the American Heart Association. These strokes can gradually affect brain function and lead to vascular cognitive impairment. Reduced blood flow deprives the brain of oxygen and nutrients, potentially causing cognitive decline. Silent strokes may also signal cardiovascular problems, such as an increased risk of a major stroke.
Less Common Causes of Memory Loss
Infections: Severe infections, such as those affecting the brain, can cause memory problems. Long COVID-19 has also been linked to memory loss in some individuals.
Head Injuries: Mild brain injuries may result in confusion and memory challenges.
Brain Tumors: Tumors and treatments like chemotherapy or radiation can impact memory and cognitive processing.
Alcoholism and Substance Abuse: Chronic alcohol or drug use can impair memory. Research shows heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of cognitive impairment in older adults.
Memory lapses can be unsettling, but they’re not always a sign of dementia. Stress, sleep disturbances, medication side effects, nutritional deficiencies, and silent strokes are all treatable causes of memory problems. By identifying and addressing the root cause, you can often improve cognitive function and overall well-being.
