Memory Lapses: Could They Indicate Early Dementia?

Q: Memory Lapses: Could They Indicate Early Dementia?

Hello： It is not uncommon for individuals to suddenly forget things they have just done, but later recall them at some point, albeit without a complete memory of the event (for example, remembering that they took a shower but being unsure if they washed their hair; recalling that

Forgot what I did about eight hours ago?

1.
About six days ago, I seemed to have taken my daily medication (finasteride, quartered) at 8 PM, and then at 3 AM, I suddenly remembered this, but I had no clear memory of taking the medication and was uncertain if I had taken it or not.

2.
I experienced a similar forgetfulness regarding my medication a few days before my national exam in December 2019.

3.
Three months ago, during a shower, I couldn't remember if I had washed my hair; I was thinking about other things while showering, but it felt strange not to be sure if I had washed it.

4.
My concern is whether this could be early-onset dementia.

5.
Or could it be related to the medication (finasteride)? The medication guide does not mention memory impairment, but there have been reports from foreign organizations about issues with memory and cognitive function (which are not authoritative).

6.
Recently, I have specifically tried to remember taking my medication, and I have not forgotten it after two days.

He Ping, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/04

Dr. Hong Weibin reply Neurology

Hello: It is not uncommon for individuals to suddenly forget things they have just done, but later recall them at some point, albeit without a complete memory of the event (for example, remembering that they took a shower but being unsure if they washed their hair; recalling that they opened a drawer but not being certain if they took medication from it).
This situation often arises when attention is not fully focused, which prevents the actions from being encoded into working memory.
In some individuals, this can even lead to false memories.
Such occurrences are not necessarily pathological and can be influenced by various factors, such as emotions, insomnia, and stress.
It is advisable to continue monitoring the situation.
Currently, the relationship between this condition and early-onset dementia remains unknown, and there is no evidence to suggest a correlation.

Reply Date: 2020/04/04

More Info

Memory lapses can be concerning, especially when they occur frequently or seem to worsen over time. Your experiences of forgetting whether you took your medication or if you washed your hair are certainly noteworthy, and it's understandable to be worried about the possibility of early-onset dementia. However, it's essential to consider various factors before jumping to conclusions.

First, let's clarify what early-onset dementia entails. Dementia is a general term for a decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life. Early-onset dementia typically refers to dementia that occurs before the age of 65. Symptoms can include memory loss, difficulty with problem-solving, and challenges in completing familiar tasks. However, not all memory lapses indicate dementia.
In your case, the memory lapses you've described could be attributed to several factors. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact memory and cognitive function. If you were preparing for a significant exam, as you mentioned in 2019, the stress of studying could have contributed to your forgetfulness. Additionally, multitasking—such as thinking about other things while showering—can lead to lapses in memory. When our minds are preoccupied, we may not fully encode memories, leading to uncertainty about whether we completed a task.

Regarding the medication you mentioned, Finasteride, it is primarily used to treat conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia and male pattern baldness. While it is not commonly associated with memory impairment, individual reactions to medications can vary. If you suspect that your medication might be affecting your memory, it would be wise to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your situation and determine whether a change in medication is warranted.

It's also important to note that memory lapses can be a normal part of aging or even a result of lifestyle factors, such as sleep deprivation, poor nutrition, or lack of physical activity. Ensuring that you maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep, can help support cognitive function.

If your memory lapses continue or worsen, it would be prudent to seek a professional evaluation. A healthcare provider can conduct cognitive assessments to determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed. Tests may include memory assessments, questionnaires, and possibly brain imaging to rule out other conditions.

In summary, while your experiences of memory lapses are valid and should not be dismissed, they do not necessarily indicate early-onset dementia. Factors such as stress, multitasking, and medication effects can all play a role in memory function. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and consulting with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation can help clarify your concerns and guide you toward appropriate interventions if necessary. Remember, early detection and intervention are key in managing cognitive health, so staying proactive about your concerns is essential.

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