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Memory loss - MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
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Memory loss

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Central nervous system
Central nervous system

Alternative Names    Return to top

Forgetfulness; Amnesia; Impaired memory; Loss of memory; Mild cognitive impairment

Definition    Return to top

Memory loss (amnesia) is unusual forgetfulness.

Considerations    Return to top

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

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

Causes    Return to top

Home Care    Return to top

The family should provide support. Reality orientation is recommended -- supply familiar music, objects, or photos, to help the person stay oriented. Some people may need support to help them relearn.

Any medication schedules should be written down so the person does not have to rely 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 you have 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 may include:

The physical examination will include a detailed test of thinking and memory (mental status test), and an exams of the nervous system. Recent, intermediate, and long-term memory will be tested.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include the following:

References    Return to top

Knopman DS. Regional cerebral dysfunction: higher mental functions. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 424.

Update Date: 11/13/2008

Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Daniel B. Hoch, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2009, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.


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