Experiencing short-term memory loss can be extremely concerning. While it can be common in some instances, such as when drinking too much alcohol, other times it is more serious and alarming.
Learning when to see a doctor is key to keeping your brain and body healthy, so keep reading the guide below for all you need to know.
Memory Loss and Aging
It is normal to have some forgetfulness when you age. For example, you may occasionally misplace your keys or forget someone’s name but recall it later.
It is not normal for short-term memory loss in elderly people to hinder day-to-day life or social interactions, which could point to dementia. Dementia refers to a set of symptoms that includes memory impairment.
Suppose you’re often getting lost going to familiar places, constantly repeating questions, misplacing items, and forgetting words. In that case, these signs could suggest a more severe issue than the normal forgetfulness that comes with aging.
Medical Problems That Can Cause Memory Loss
There are certain medical conditions that can cause sudden short-term memory loss that is reversible. These include emotional disorders, alcoholism, hypothyroidism, brain diseases, and medications.
If you feel you suffer from any of these medical conditions, you should consult with your doctor to see if a treatment is available to you.
When to See Your Doctor for Short-Term Memory Loss
If you’re ever concerned about your short-term memory loss, you should see your doctor. There are tests that your doctor can conduct to diagnose any short-term memory loss causes to begin to fix the problem.
Your doctor will most likely ask you many different questions to reach a diagnosis. It’s wise to bring a friend or family member along to help you answer the questions, especially if you’re having difficulty remembering.
The questions may include:
- When did your memory problems begin?
- What medications do you take?
- How much alcohol do you drink?
- Do you find certain tasks difficult?
- Have you experienced any recent traumas?
- Have you been sick recently?
- Do you feel sad, anxious, or depressed?
In addition to asking these questions, your doctor will most likely conduct a physical exam, blood tests, and brain imaging scans. This will help them diagnose your memory issue to discover if it is reversible or not and what treatment options may be available.
Upon your diagnosis, your doctor may then refer you to a specialist in diagnosing memory disorders, such as a neurologist, psychologist, psychiatrist, or geriatrician.
Always Take Memory Loss Seriously
It’s important always to take short-term memory loss seriously, even if you’re young and healthy. If there is a chance there is an underlying issue, you should always visit your doctor’s office to confirm there is nothing wrong. Catching any disease early is key to treating it effectively.
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