Having an issue with short-term memory loss means you easily forget what you have done, heard or seen. Typically, short-term memory loss is associated with age. However, conditions like brain injury, dementia and mental health disorders also contribute to short-term memory loss. Your short-term memory is how the brain stores the little information you gather. Understanding how short-term memory loss happens, how to recognize it, and the best treatment is crucial. Here is a short outlook of the symptoms, causes and treatment for short-term memory loss.
Symptoms of Short-term Memory Loss
Short-term memory loss is about forgetting recent things. You may notice you have memory loss if;
- You ask the same question repeatedly
- You forget recent events
- You forget where you put things
- You forget something you read or saw
Diagnosis of short-term memory loss involves the doctor asking questions about your lifestyle and general health. They may also ask about any illnesses or injuries you might have recently. Another thing the doctor might ask to diagnose short-term memory loss is the amount of alcohol you drink or your sleeping habits. Additionally, doctors ask about medication and diet to diagnose memory loss.
Once you are diagnosed with short-term memory loss, the doctor will refer you to a specialist based on the causes of this problem. You may also want to use the best supplements for memory to improve your condition. Remember, cognitive tests are crucial to examine the issue and come up with a better conclusion.
Causes of Short-term Memory Loss
There are many causes of short-term memory loss. These are:
- Age
- Dementia
- Brain tumour
- Head injuries
- Blood clots or bleeding in the brain
- Substance use disorder
- Brain infection, mental health disorders like anxiety and depression
- Stress
- Lack of enough sleep
- Vitamins and minerals deficiency
- Specific illnesses that damage brain tissue
- Medications like statins
- PTSD
One thing you must know is that these causes are progressive. If the problem is left untreated, it worsens over time, leading to long-term memory loss.
Treatment for Short-term Memory Loss
The treatment administered for short-term memory loss depends on the cause. Generally, potential treatment options include:
- Cognitive therapy
- Surgery, radiation or chemotherapy for brain tumours
- Changing medication
- Nutritional supplements
- Medication and therapy for mental health conditions
- Rehab for substance abuse disorder
It is important to note that some causes of short-term memory loss, like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, don’t have a cure. However, medications are available to slow down the progression of these symptoms. Short-term memory loss improves when the cause is treated. Otherwise, it may lead to permanent damage.
Taking supplements can help improve the condition. However, these are more effective when combined with other lifestyle changes like:
- Getting adequate sleep
- Exercising
- Challenging the brain with activities like puzzles
- Eating healthy foods like vegetables, lean meat, whole grains and plenty of fruits
- Staying organized by creating a list of things to do and decluttering your space
- Avoiding drinking excess alcohol
A Take-Home Message
Short-term memory loss is a condition common with ageing that most people experience. This kind of memory loss does not interfere with how you function or live. However, treating it as soon as you recognize it is vital to prevent it from progressing to long-term memory loss.
