Information on Memory Loss

Everybody forgets things from time to time. When forgetfulness becomes unusual, such as forgetting how to balance a checkbook or not being able to remember the name of a close friend, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration abnormal memory loss could be the issue.

Features

• Memory loss is abnormal if it disrupts daily living and happens frequently. Other signs of memory loss include forgetting things that you should remember, such as recent conversations, being confused in familiar surroundings and increasing severity in the memory loss, according to the FDA.

Causes

• Anything that affects the cognitive process can affect memory. Certain medications, as well as alcohol and illegal drugs, could cause memory loss. Stress, depression, a head injury, certain infections, lack of sleep, a vitamin B1 and B12 deficiency and aging can also cause memory loss.

Prevention

• No conclusive results have been determined, as of 2010, for how to prevent memory loss from aging. Some approaches look promising, including lowering your cholesterol and blood pressure if it is high; refraining from smoking and heavy drinking; exercising; eating a healthy diet that incorporates green, leafy vegetables, salmon and tuna; maintaining social activities and keeping your brain active.