Managing memory loss

EVERYONE forgets things every now and then.  We usually tend to forget things that are not important to us and remember things that are important like the names of our parents.

Forgetfulness is very common as people get older. Many conditions can be the cause and often are reversible.
 
People usually fear the worse as memory loss becomes  more prominent. Although it can be scary and life altering, it is not always due to dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. 
Reversible causes include depression and an underactive thyroid.
 
Dementia is the most serious form of memory problems and can be caused by many medical illnesses, which I will get into in the next few issues.

I have outlined the symptoms and causes of memory loss, as well as how it can prevented and slowed down and the various treatments available.
 
When should I suspect my loved one or I have memory problems?

Symptoms of memory loss include the following, and if suspected, you should speak to you doctor as soon as possible.

* Being repetitive and asking the same question over and over again.
* Mixing words up e.g. saying paper instead of pen. 
* Forgetting common words and inability to find the right word when speaking.
* General slowness in completing tasks that are familiar, for example, following a cooking recipe.
*  Sudden changes in mood for no apparent reason.
*  Misplacing items, like placing keys in the freezer.
*  Difficulty with following directions
*  Wandering and getting lost while driving or walking in a familiar place.
*  Demonstrating, unusual or inappropriate behaviour.
*  Hallucinations and paranoia, for example, accusing random people of stealing from them.
*  Getting lost while walking or driving around a familiar neighbourhood.
* Becoming less able to follow directions.

How will your doctor assess your memory loss?

Your doctor will conduct tests to judge the degree of memory impairment and  run question-based, blood and x-ray tests to diagnose the cause.

The doctor will have some questions, and it is always beneficial to have a relative present to assist in the interview. Questions may include:
*  How long have you had memory problems?
* What is your medical history and medications you are on, including any new changes?
*  How is the memory loss affecting your life in terms of daily functioning?
* What did you do to cope with memory problems and did it help?
* Do you drink alcohol?
* Have you recently injured your head or been sick?
* Have you recently felt depressed or anxious?
* Have you had any major stressful event in your life?
* What is your daily routine and how has it changed recently?

What are the causes of memory loss?

The causes of memory loss can be divided into reversible and irreversible.
 
Reversible causes include: depression and anxiety, vitamin B12 deficiency, infections, delirium, surgery, certain medications, underactive thyroid gland and head injury or tumours.

Irreversible causes include: vascular dementia, Alzheimer’s dementia and dementia with Lewy-Bodies.
 
Many causes are reversible and treatable, therefore seeking urgent medical attention and treatment is key.
 
How is memory loss treated and how can I cope with it?

Treatment is dependent on the cause. Reversible causes are treated accordingly, for example, using antidepressants for memory loss secondary to depression.

The most important part of coping with memory loss is getting the reassurance needed from your doctor.

You should not delay seeking medical advice as denial and anxiety about your condition can actually worsen the symptoms.

Coping is related to the cause of memory loss. Medical and psychological treatment play a major role. Other methods include memory aids like notes and reminders.

Support from loved ones is also very important. If your loved one is suffering from memory loss, he or she will be very anxious and scared about it.
 
Most conditions lead to memory loss of new events while the past remains intact. So patients tend to live in the past.

Constant gentle reminders are important and new information should be kept simple and repeated frequently.

Sticking to a routine is also very helpful and allows the patient to feel comfortable and safe doing a familiar thing every day.

Avoid losing your temper or telling your loved one you have mentioned something multiple times. Other approaches include reminiscing and cognitive stimulation therapy.

Overall, coping with memory loss can be very difficult, but with good support from the people around, one can have a better life.