As we age, it is normal for us to have some memory loss. However, there are times where memory loss may actually be an indication of a more sinister, underlying medical condition. In these cases, it is important to visit a doctor and seek medical advice.
So, how can you tell between age-related memory loss and memory loss that is caused by an underlying medical condition? The answer is that the former is often mild, occurs infrequently and will have little to no impact on your day-to-day life. On the other hand, memory loss caused by an underlying medical condition is more persistent, disabling and will affect your ability to carry out daily activities (see Table 1). Furthermore, medical conditions which give rise to memory loss often present with other symptoms as well, such as:
- Mood changes
- Confusion and disorientation
- Having poor judgement
- Blurred or double vision
- Slurred speech
- Muscle weakness
- Fevers
- Seizures
- Nausea
| Age-related memory problems | Memory problems resulting from underlying medical conditions |
| Mild | Disabling |
| Occurs infrequently or as
small memory lapses (eg. taking a while to recall names) |
Persistent and more severe
(eg. forgetting your home address) |
| Little to no impact on daily life | Affects ability to carry out daily activities |
| No other symptoms | Accompanied by other abnormal symptoms |
Some medical conditions which may give rise to memory problems include:
Transient global amnesia (TGA). TGA refers to a sudden episode of memory loss. An episode of TGA is temporary and typically lasts only for a few hours. When experiencing an episode of TGA, you will have normal cognition, retain your personal identity and preserve your ability to carry out complex tasks such as driving. However, you will not be able to formulate or recall any memories.
Dementia. Dementia is a generic term used to describe chronic or progressive memory loss and deterioration in thinking, language, problem-solving and ability to carry out everyday tasks.
Stroke. A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either because the arteries leading to your brain are blocked or burst. As a result, oxygen supply to the brain is cut off, causing brain damage as cells in part of your brain die. When this happens, bodily functions controlled by damaged parts of your brain are lost.
Brain tumours. Brain tumours are masses of abnormal cells that grow within the skull.
Neuroinfections. Neuroinfections occur when pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi or prion invade the nervous system through the bloodstream or peripheral nerves. The two most common neuroinfections are meningitis and encephalitis.
If you are currently experiencing memory problems that are interfering with your daily life, consult a doctor and seek medical attention as soon as possible.