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Memory loss

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Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Central nervous system
Central nervous system

Alternative Names    Return to top

Forgetfulness; Amnesia; Impaired memory; Loss of memory

Definition    Return to top

Memory loss (amnesia) is unusual forgetfulness that can be caused by brain damage due to disease or injury, or it can be caused by severe emotional trauma.

Considerations    Return to top

The cause determines whether amnesia comes on slowly or suddenly, and whether it is temporary or permanent.

Normal aging may result in trouble learning new material or requiring longer time to recall learned material. However, it does not lead to dramatic memory loss unless diseases are involved.

Causes    Return to top

Home Care    Return to top

Family support should be provided. Reality orientation is recommended -- supply familiar music, objects, or photos, to help the patient become oriented. Support for relearning may be required in some cases.

Any medication schedules should be written down to avoid dependence on memory.

Extended care facilities, such as nursing homes, should be considered for people whose basic needs cannot be met in any other way, or whose safety or nutrition is in jeopardy.

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider if there is any unexplained memory loss.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit    Return to top

The doctor will perform a thorough examination and take a medical history. This may require asking questions of family members and friends.

Medical history questions documenting memory loss in detail may include the following:

Physical examination may include a detailed neurological examination. Recent, intermediate, and long-term memory will be tested.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include the following:

Update Date: 11/21/2006

Updated by: Daniel Kantor, M.D., Director of the Comprehensive MS Center, Neuroscience Institute, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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