Menopause Memory Symptoms

Memory loss with menopause is a common symptom. Many women experience memory symptoms with menopause from mild to severe, more often with short-term memory loss than long-term memory symptoms. The memory loss can be frustrating but it is not permanent as most women recover fully and regain their normal memory function.

Types of Memory Stages

• There are three types of basic memory stages: registration stage, retention stage and recall stage. All three stages can be affected by menopause.

Registration Stage

• Registration stage is when you utilize your senses to observe and store perceptions of the world around you.

Retention Stage

• Retention is the stage that gives you the ability to hold onto information for short or long term.

Recall Stage

• Recall stage is your ability to bring forth and use data that has been in your memory either short or long term.

Types of Memory

• There are three types of memory: working memory also known as short-term memory; recent memory, which helps you remember events from day to day; and procedural memory that helps you recall long term and helps with motor skills. All three types of memory can be affected by menopause.

Causes

• Women experiencing menopause also experience a decrease in estrogen, which has a direct link to memory. Other bodily changes that occur with menopause such as hot flashes, insomnia, night sweats, headaches, anxiety and mood swings can also exacerbate memory symptoms.

Relief

• A healthy diet, regular exercise, avoiding alcohol and speaking to a doctor about prescribing an anti-depressant if you're feeling depressed are all remedies that can aid with insomnia, depression and anxiety, thus reducing their effect on memory symptoms.