Description

Memory Loss Definition Memory loss is unusual forgetfulness. You may not be able to remember new events, recall one or more memories of the past, or both. The memory loss may be for a short time and then resolve (transient). Or, it may not go away, and, depending on the cause, it can get worse over time. In severe cases, such memory impairment may interfere with daily living activities. Alternative Names Forgetfulness; Amnesia; Impaired memory; Loss of memory; Amnestic syndrome; Dementia - memory loss; Mild cognitive impairment - memory loss Causes Normal aging can cause some forgetfulness. It is normal to have some trouble learning new material or needing more time to remember it. But normal aging does not lead to dramatic memory loss. Such memory loss is due to other diseases. Memory loss can be caused by many things. To determine a cause, your health care provider will ask if the problem came on suddenly or slowly. Many areas of the brain help you create and retrieve memories. A problem in any of these areas can lead to memory loss. Causes of Memory Loss Many factors can cause memory loss. These factors include: • vitamin B-12 deficiency • sleep deprivation • use of alcohol or drugs and some prescription medications • anesthesia from recent surgery • cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or bone marrow transplant • head injury or concussion • lack of oxygen to the brain • certain types of seizures • brain tumor or infection • brain surgery or heart bypass surgery • mental disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and dissociative disorder • emotional trauma • thyroid dysfunction • electroconvulsive therapy • transient ischemic attack (TIA) • neurodegenerative illnesses such as Huntington’s disease, multiple sclerosis (MS), or Parkinson’s disease • migraine

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