What is a memory disorder?
A memory disorder is a weakening of the ability to retain new information, recall stored information or reconstruct events in sequence. It is not a separate disease but a symptom of various conditions, many of which can be treated.
As one sage put it: “As long as I remember, I am alive.” Memory is the foundation of daily life, work and social relationships. Memory can weaken as a result of long periods of work without rest, psychological factors, injuries, lack of sleep and other illnesses, and this causes serious problems in everyday life.
What are the causes of memory disorders?
Causes that can often be treated
- Stress, anxiety and depression
- Lack of sleep, excessive mental strain
- Vitamin B12 deficiency, an underactive thyroid gland
- Side effects of certain medicines
- Chronic intoxication — alcohol, drugs, harmful working conditions
- Hearing and vision loss (which make it harder to take in information)
Causes related to brain damage
- Traumatic brain injury
- Stroke and chronic damage to the brain’s blood vessels
- Brain tumours and infections
- Neurodegenerative diseases — Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia
In which conditions do memory disorders occur?
- Age-related changes — with age, slower thinking and mild forgetfulness may be observed. However, only a medical examination can show whether this is a harmless age-related change or the beginning of dementia.
- Mild cognitive impairment — memory is noticeably weaker than in people of the same age, but the person carries out daily tasks independently. This condition requires regular monitoring.
- Dementia — a progressively worsening impairment of functions such as memory, thinking, language and orientation, to a degree that interferes with daily activities. In cortical dementia, impairment of memory, language and recognition is prominent; in subcortical dementia, slowed thinking, attention problems and emotional changes are more pronounced.
- Alzheimer’s disease — the most common cause of dementia. Memory and thinking gradually decline, the disease progresses in stages, and in the late stages the person needs help from others with self-care.
- Korsakoff syndrome — involves severe memory impairment and disorientation in time and place; other mental functions may be relatively preserved. Its main cause is thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, and it often develops against a background of chronic alcohol dependence.
When should I see a doctor or seek emergency help?
If forgetfulness interferes with your daily life, your family notice it, you get lost in familiar places, or tasks you used to find easy have become difficult, make a routine appointment with a neurologist. Early assessment is important because some of the causes can be treated.
If sudden impairment of memory or consciousness, confusion, difficulty speaking or weakness on one side of the body develops, or these symptoms appear after a head injury, call 103 immediately — this may be a sign of stroke or another emergency.
How are memory disorders diagnosed?
If possible, come to the appointment with a relative who knows you well — people around you can often describe more accurately when the changes began. During a detailed neurological examination the doctor asks about your symptoms, the medicines you take and your mood, and carries out standard cognitive tests that assess memory, attention, language and orientation. Blood tests (vitamin B12, thyroid hormones, etc.) may be ordered to detect treatable causes, and an MRI or CT scan to assess the brain’s blood vessels and structure. If there are episodic memory losses and disturbances of consciousness, an EEG may be needed.
Treatment approaches
Treatment depends on the cause. If a vitamin deficiency, hormonal disorder, depression, sleep problems or a medication side effect is found, correcting them can improve memory considerably. There is currently no curative treatment for Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, but some medicines can relieve symptoms for a certain period; the doctor decides individually whether they are suitable. Non-drug approaches — cognitive stimulation, establishing a daily routine, support for the family — are an important part of treatment.
Everyday life and prevention
- Go to bed and get up at regular times, alternate mental work with physical work, and make time for rest.
- Take regular physical activity.
- Stop smoking and limit alcohol.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruit, fish and whole grains.
- Keep your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol under control — this also protects the brain’s blood vessels.
- Stay mentally and socially active: read, learn new skills, keep in touch with people.
- Have hearing and vision problems corrected in good time.
- Use aids such as a diary, lists and reminders.
Frequently asked questions
Does all forgetfulness mean dementia?
No. Forgetfulness is very common with tiredness, stress and lack of sleep. Memory weakness that interferes with daily life and is getting worse, however, needs to be assessed.
Is there a “vitamin” that improves memory?
If there is no deficiency, vitamin supplements have not been proven to improve memory. If a deficiency is confirmed by a blood test, the doctor prescribes treatment.
Is Alzheimer’s hereditary?
Having Alzheimer’s in the family slightly increases the risk, but in most cases the disease is not directly inherited. The rare early-onset forms are the exception.
How can I help a relative with a memory disorder?
Bring them for an assessment, help them keep a stable daily routine, and speak calmly in simple sentences. Pay attention to safety at home and do not forget to seek support for yourself too — carer burnout is common.