Poor Memory

Memory loss affects most people in one way or another.  More often than not, it is a momentary memory lapse; nothing to worry about - it happens to the best of us.  However, when memory lapses begin to become a regular occurrence, it is wise to dig a little deeper and seek medical advice.

Causes and Development

Short-term memory provides a small storage space for daily tasks and lists, and is more likely to be affected with age.  Memory is also affected by lack of sleep or by stress and anxiety.  Conversely, if the mind is dull from depression or boredom, short-term memory becomes rusty from lack of use.  Long-term memory tends to remain stable with age.  Childhood memories remain in the mind better than adult memories.

Memory can be affected by a number of factors and there are many possible causes of patches of memory being lost, some more sinister than others.  A high fever, an attack of epilepsy, severe alcohol intoxication or surgery can erase memory.  A stroke can cause sudden memory loss (accompanied by other neurological symptoms, such as dizziness, visual changes, buckling knees or slurred speech.) A passing loss of short-term memory, or ischemic attack, lasts only a few minutes and can precede a stroke.

Memory problems can also be the result of deeper-rooted issues such as brain disease, tumors, or the onset of a disease such as Alzheimer's that causes brain cell deterioration.  Alzheimer's disease and senile dementia are sources of memory loss in older persons and are associated with the gradual erosion of the personality.  Sufferers who have any doubts at all should always seek medical advice with regards to continued memory loss.

Many substances affect memory, including prescription drugs, such as sleeping pills and antidepressants, and chronic alcohol abuse.  Nutritional deficiencies should also be evaluated, especially in older people who do not always eat well.  Problems with memory are often associated with physical fatigue that causes inattention.  Some women experience memory loss in conjunction with menopause as a result of hormonal imbalances.  Usually short-term memory loss is a side-effect of too much stress and an overload of information.  There are many illnesses related to fatigue and poor attention span, including anemia, underactive thyroid and hyperactivity.

If a complete period of life has been forgotten, it is usually the result of blocking out psychological or emotional pain, as a coping mechanism.  If a head injury is the cause of memory loss, have it evaluated immediately.

It may simply be lack of sleep; fatigue due to over-work, lack of exercise, or poor diet.  These are all issue about which we can do something constructive to help us.

Signs and Symptoms

Forgetfulness is not a symptom of a serious problem, unless it becomes debilitating or accompanied by other symptoms of mental instability such as confusion or behavioral changes.

Treatment and Prevention

Many herbs create a positive effect on memory.  Take them as herbal teas by brewing 1 tsp.  of herbs in 1 cup of hot water and let steep for ten minutes.