Memory loss
Introduction
Memory loss, also called amnesia, happens when a person loses the ability to remember information and events they would normally be able to recall.
It could be something that happened seconds or minutes ago, or a memorable event that occurred in the past. The loss of memory may have started suddenly, or it may have been getting worse over the last year or so.
It's normal to become a bit forgetful as you getolder. However, memory loss could be a symptom of something more serious and should be checked byaGP.
Memory loss can be distressing fortheperson affected, and their family. Relatives mayfear the worst and assume it's caused by Frontotemporal dementia ,but thisoften isn't the case.
The following information will tell you:
- what to do if you're worried about memory loss
- how to tell if it could be caused bydementia
- the most common causes of memory loss (but don't rely on this to self-diagnosea condition)
- how to cope with a poor memory
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 4 Jan 2017
Introduction
Memory loss, also called amnesia, is where a person loses the ability to remember information and events they would normally be able to recall.
What to do if you're worried about memory loss
See your GP ifyou're worried because you or someone you care for has lost their memory. They'll do aninitial assessment and ask questions about symptoms, family historyand lifestyle. They may alsoarra
Could memory loss be dementia?
If you're reading this because you think your memory problems may be a sign of dementia, rest assured that they probably aren't. Aperson with dementia won't usually be aware of their memory loss, orma
What to do if you're worried about memory loss
See your GP ifyou're worried because you or someone you care for has lost their memory. They'll do aninitial assessment and ask questions about symptoms, family historyand lifestyle. They may alsoarra
Could memory loss be dementia?
If you're reading this because you think your memory problems may be a sign of dementia, rest assured that they probably aren't. Aperson with dementia won't usually be aware of their memory loss, orma
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