Memory loss: Causes and what to do to avoid it

The memory loss, either temporary or permanent, can be defined as amnesia or difficulty to remember the past events. Generally memory loss related with old age, but it should be noted that although age is the main factor affecting the progressive deterioration of the brain and memory, there are other aspects that should not be underestimated. Let’s look more closely, what are the most common causes that can cause memory loss and what can we do to improve it.

Causes

Responsible for memory loss is the limbic system, a part of the brain formed by the amygdala, the hippocampus and hypothalamus, which is responsible for regulating memory, emotions, smell, hunger and the mood. Memory loss can be a short-term if not remembered events ranging in time from a few minutes to a few hours – or long term, when the memory of past events that took place for a few minutes to a previous decade. Memory loss or amnesia is permanent when the patient is not able to retrieve lost memories.

In elderly often memory loss occurs as well as a physiological process such as associated with other diseases that can affect the functionality of the brain cells. Memory loss can occur due to a stroke, the rupture of a blood vessel in the brain, which causes does not reach enough oxygen to brain cells. Memory loss is a symptom associated with Alzheimer’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder directly related to aging. The deterioration of brain cells may also occur due to senile dementia.

Symptoms

Are there any symptoms related to memory loss? It may be a feeling of mental confusion, especially in the early stages of senile dementia. The patient may feel disoriented and lose awareness of where he is. In addition, can appear difficulties with language, trouble to concentrate, feeling of fatigue, headache, tremors and dizziness may occur.

What to do?

To help strengthen the memory and contribute to the recovery of memories – when the cause of amnesia is not a severe condition – we can use some natural remedies.

We can use the aromatic rosemary oil to scent stays and containing rosmarinic acid and flavonoids. Meanwhile, the salvia contains tannins and choline and it is useful to improve concentration and memory. It can be taken in the form of herbal capsules.

The ginkgo biloba contains active ingredients useful in the case of memory loss, as it stimulate blood circulation, especially affecting small blood vessels. Improvement in the memory and concentration capacity in general.

Another option to improve memory is acupuncture, indicated for activation of brain areas responsible for memory functionality.

Therapy

There are some therapies based on drugs for memory loss, but should always be followed under strict medical supervision, especially after having identified very precisely the cause that led to the emergence of the problem. The use of drugs is not always recommended, as it can have side effects such as headache, nausea and diarrhea. The medicines that can be administered are cholinergic, such as piracetam, aniracetam and oxiracetam, which improves blood flow.