Short term memory loss and confusion

How to overcome memory loss and improve your short-term memory? A stroke can cause short-term or long-term memory loss. The fact that it comes on suddenly yields clues to its possible causes. New cases of confusion or sudden memory loss for no apparent reason should be evaluated by a medical professional immediately.

And some memory problems are the result of treatable conditions.

As a result, major side effects can include memory loss , confusion , delusions, hallucinations, drowsiness and compulsive behaviors such as overeating and gambling. Alternatives: If you are being treated for RLS , ask your doctor or pharmacist whether one of your prescription or over-the-counter medications may be the trigger. People can experience confusion and short-term memory loss after receiving ECT treatments.

It becomes difficult to maintain focus, sharp memory and clarity. Low thyroid function is a common cause of brain fog, depression (1), difficulty concentrating and short term memory loss. Hypothyroidism is often associated with mood disturbances and cognitive impairment, implying that thyroid hormones are critical for normal brain functioning.

Surprising Causes of Memory Loss. These include memory loss and confusion.

A commonly prescribed type diabetes drug, metformin, has also been associated with memory problems. Be sure to take steps like wearing protective headgear and helmets when playing sports. Short - term memory loss is the most common form of memory loss due to a TIA.

Patients experiencing short - term memory loss will have vivid memories from long ago, but will have difficulty remembering the events of the present day. Never fear – when you can pinpoint the underlying cause of your brain fog and memory loss , there is something you can do about it. Most people will suffer from minor short - term memory loss , such as misplacing car keys or forgetting to lock their car doors, at some point in their lives. Confusion , Memory Loss , and Altered Alertness.

However, when fatigue and short - term memory loss become a chronic or recurring problem, a consultation with a physician may be necessary to determine an underlying cause. A simple blood test can tell if your thyroid is doing its job properly. Drinking too much alcohol can interfere with short - term memory , even after the effects of alcohol have worn off. Stress can in fact help you remember certain details.

Memory loss is now required to be listed as a side effect on the label of statin cholesterol-lowering drugs like Lipitor and Crestor. When researchers examined the medical records of nearly a million people, they found that statin use increased the risk of memory loss four-fold. Recent ( short - term ) memory loss and Weight loss (unintentional) WebMD Symptom Checker helps you find the most common medical conditions indicated by the symptoms recent ( short - term ) memory loss and weight loss (unintentional) including Depression (Adult), Depression (Child and Adolescent), and Dementia with Lewy bodies.

Memory loss that begins suddenly or that significantly interferes with your ability to function in daily life may mean a more serious problem is present. Dementia is a slow decline in memory , problem-solving ability, learning ability, and judgment that may occur over several weeks to several months.

Many health conditions can cause dementia or. However, memory loss , which is defined as “unusual forgetfulness” in both short - term and long- term functions, is not. Memory loss is often automatically associated with Alzheimer’s disease, a medical issue that impacts over five million Americans every year. Memory loss can be caused by a number of factors, from short term causes such as low blood sugar or medication side effects to long term health issues such as dementia. Treatment for long term memory loss will depend on what is causing it.

Memory problems can sometimes happen due to the side effects of anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs). Drowsiness or concentration problems can affect your short - term memory , and may make it more difficult to learn and store new information. You may be more likely to have memory problems if you take high doses or more than one type of AED. Experiencing loss of memory , foggy thinking, and difficulty concentrating all point to a hormonal imbalance.

Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, an irreversible state of confusion and amnesia in alcoholics, from thiamine deficiency due to long- term malnutrition. But consuming excessive amounts of alcohol for a decade or more can also cause impaired thinking that resembles Alzheimer’s disease. What Causes Memory Loss ? Damage to the blood vessels is common in people with diabetes.