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Memory Loss During Menopause

While frustrating, slight memory loss is a normal sign of menopause. It's also a natural part of aging. Many women fear they are experiencing the early stages of dementia. Memory loss associated with menopause can even begin four to 15 years before menopause truly begins. But don't worry, there are numerous treatments and resources to help, and some memory loss can even be reversed. According to Dr. Arun S. Karlamangla, after menopause is complete, memory usually returns to the level it was before the transition began.

  1. Menopause

    • Women experience the end in fertility and menstruation usually between ages 35 and 65. The transition usually is complete one year after your last period.

    Symptoms

    • Short-term memory is most commonly affected by menopause. You may experience a "fuzziness" and difficulty concentrating. Perhaps you can't remember a close friend's phone number or you use one word when you meant to use another. You may begin to forget important appointments or start to forget names. You may lose your train of thought or reverse words while speaking. Claire Warga, Ph.D., has put a name to this specific memory loss: Warga's Hormonal Misconnection Syndrome.

    Causes

    • Some research has suggested that the fluctuations in hormone levels, especially estrogen, contribute to memory loss during menopause. Sometimes it is more the symptoms of menopause that contribute to memory loss, rather than the transition itself. Stress and hot flashes can keep you from getting a good night's rest, which makes it difficult for your brain to function at its peak capacity. Some women suffer from depression during menopause, which also can contribute to memory loss.

    Treatment

    • Exercises such as crossword puzzles, brain teasers, travel and classes can help keep your brain sharp and combat memory loss. Sleep at least eight hours a day to keep your brain and body rested. Eat a well-balanced diet and avoid alcohol, which impairs memory even further. Menopause is a stressful time for women, so participate in activities such as yoga, swimming, walking and breathing exercises to keep your stress levels at a minimum. Some doctors may suggest hormone therapy with estrogen or progesterone to help improve cognitive function. Low-dose antidepressants may help with hot flashes and depression.

    Warning

    • If you choose to use hormone therapy, do so for the shortest time possible and only during a time when you are experiencing particularly bothersome symptoms. If you are postmemopause--meaning you have not had a period for more than one year--and still are experiencing severe memory loss or other strange symptoms related to memory or cognitive function, consult your doctor.

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