People forget for any number of reasons. Some milder forms of memory loss, such as forgetting someone's name, are normal, and are a part of the process of aging. However, other forms of memory loss, such as blackouts due to alcohol or drug abuse, or from dementia-related diseases such as Alzheimer's, are serious and need to be treated. While some forms of memory loss are irreversible, the milder forms aren't, and can be treated through simple exercises that help strengthen one's memory.
Significance
Memory loss is normal. Anyone can suffer from it, whether due to stress, trauma or simple old age. While milder forms of memory loss are correctable, there are some forms of memory loss that suggest a deeper, more serious problem. Neurological diseases, such as dementia, can cause memory loss, and can have irreversible effects on sufferers. Alzheimer's Disease is one form of dementia in which the sufferer experiences serious and irreversible forms of memory loss. Sufferers of Parkinson's Disease are also known to suffer from irreversible forms of memory loss.
Types
There are many types of memory loss, ranging from the mild to the extremely serious. Memory loss can be the result of any number of causes. They can include loss due to depression and grieving; metabolic disorders, such as hypothyroidism; a reaction to prescribed medications; and vitamin deficiency. Memory loss can also be caused by pregnancy (it's common for some pregnant women to experience memory loss) and the normal effects of aging. Serious problems involving memory loss also include blackouts due to drug and alcohol abuse or dementia-related diseases, such as Alzheimer's. Amnesia is another form of memory loss, and is often caused by physical or psychological traumas.
Features
Forgetfulness can come in varying forms. They can range from forgetting the placement of objects (such as keys) to forgetting a person's name. Certain types of memory loss are normal and do not generally disrupt a person's ability to function. But other forms of memory loss---such as ones attributed to dementia---can have a debilitating effect. Serious forms of forgetfulness include: repeatedly asking the same questions; having difficulty remembering common, conversational words; mixing up words; being unable to complete tasks or follow directions; and getting lost while driving on familiar streets.
Misconceptions
There are some common misconceptions about why people forget. While old age and dementia, including Alzheimer's or Parkinson's Disease, are well-known causes of forgetfulness and memory loss, anyone can forget something at any point in his life. Another misconception is that, since many people believe forgetfulness is related to old age and dementia, it must be irreversible. This is simply not true. Mild forms of forgetfulness can be strengthened through memory exercises or rote memorization. Memory loss due to drug or alcohol abuse can be reduced by eliminating the use of those substances.
Prevention/Solution
Other solutions for memory loss can include taking notes or writing lists and posting them in readily accessible places. Since vitamin deficiency is a known reason for memory loss, a daily intake of vitamins can also reverse forgetfulness. For more serious forms of memory loss, it's important to check with a physician to determine the cause and possible treatments.
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