If you constantly forget where you put your keys, what time you have a meeting, what products you need to buy in the store; if you constantly set reminders on your phone so as not to forget about the next task; if you often cannot remember why you went to another room, – you need to think about what is the reason for your constant forgetfulness. Many people believe that memory disorders – symptom of Alzheimer's disease. And although this is true, this disease – far from the only culprit of forgetfulness and distraction.
Forgetfulness can be caused by certain medications
Memory deterioration – a reason to see a doctor, including to find out if such a change is a consequence of taking medications. Dr. Lauren Drag from Stanford University says that some drugs can cause forgetfulness. These include anticholinergics, including:
- antihistamines (e.g. Benadryl);
- drugs prescribed for reflux (eg Zantac);
- muscle relaxants (e.g. Flexeril);
- drugs to treat depression (such as Paxil, Elavil).
In the event of a sudden deterioration in memory, especially at a young age, it is necessary to consult a specialist.
Memory impairment can also be caused by certain medications:
- lowering blood pressure;
- sedatives;
- painkillers.
In this case, a doctor's consultation is necessary in order to prescribe an alternative remedy.
For non-drug causes of forgetfulness, see estet-portal.com below.
Depression, overexertion and fatigue as causes of forgetfulness
Because depression and stress impair concentration, it becomes difficult for a person to focus on anything in particular. Accordingly, it also becomes more difficult to remember the necessary information.
Depression can lead to changes in the size and function of areas of the brain important for memory, attention, and problem solving.
Stress also distracts the brain from the process of remembering information. Remember how difficult it can be for you to focus on a conversation with an interlocutor if your thoughts are occupied with an important issue. Under conditions of chronic stress, things are much worse. Multi-tasking, working late, irregular or unbalanced diet and physical inactivity – possible causes of memory impairment.
Sleep for 8 hours – does not mean rest. The quality of sleep significantly affects how you feel in the morning, as well as your cognitive abilities. If you feel tired after waking up, it is best to consult a doctor, as the cause of constant fatigue may be an illness.
Forgetfulness can be caused by alcohol and chronic diseases
Alcohol affects the brain not only during its use, but also after. For example, studies have shown that temporary memory impairment during the detox period – a completely normal reaction of the body. However, in the case of regular alcohol abuse, the changes in the brain can be irreversible.
Any disease that interferes with blood flow to the brain can cause forgetfulness.
Any disease that disrupts blood flow to the brain can cause forgetfulness:
- diabetes;
- high blood pressure;
- thyroid diseases;
- diseases of the liver and kidneys.
Sometimes forgetfulness occurs in response to vitamin B12 deficiency.
Memory deterioration is often associated with the natural aging process: with age, wrinkles appear on the skin, joints wear out, and the ability to memorize and recall information deteriorates. The best ways to prevent forgetfulness are memory exercises, regular physical activity and a healthy diet. No less important are preventive examinations, which will allow timely detection of diseases that cause forgetfulness.
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