Memory Issues at 23: Seeking Help for Cognitive Decline

Q: Memory Issues at 23: Seeking Help for Cognitive Decline

Hello Mr. <br>Confuse： You mentioned, "Yesterday I went to 7-Eleven to buy dinner, but when I looked at the receipt today, I couldn't remember what I bought... <br>This afternoon, I boiled water and let it cool, but in the evening, I forgot whether that pot of water had been boil

23 years old, experiencing memory impairment?

Due to gastrointestinal issues, I have been taking traditional Chinese medicine for nearly five years.
In 2022, I was diagnosed with COVID-19, and since then, I have noticed a decline in my memory.
As a result, I have developed a habit of writing things down, but recently, I feel that the situation has worsened.
I often cannot recall what happened yesterday, and sometimes I can't even remember through my notes.
For example, the following situations occur:
1.
I changed clothes yesterday, but today when I take a shower, I forget whether I changed or not.
2.
A certain area of my skin was very itchy yesterday, but after a day, I forget where it was.
3.
A few days ago, a family member scolded me, but after a few days, the details of the scolding become very vague.
4.
I went to a convenience store yesterday to buy dinner, but when I look at the receipt tonight, I can't remember what I bought.
5.
I boiled water in the afternoon and let it cool, but in the evening, I forget whether that pot of water was boiled.
These situations happen frequently, not just occasionally.
I would like to ask the doctor if my described condition requires further evaluation or examination.
Thank you.

konfjuuz, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/03/17

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Mr.
Confuse: You mentioned, "Yesterday I went to 7-Eleven to buy dinner, but when I looked at the receipt today, I couldn't remember what I bought...
This afternoon, I boiled water and let it cool, but in the evening, I forgot whether that pot of water had been boiled." These instances are indicative of short-term memory impairment.
Common causes affecting short-term memory include:
1.
Stress: Cortisol and adrenaline can impact cognitive functions, including memory.
2.
Distraction: Excessive stimuli in the environment can easily lead to forgetfulness.
3.
Medications: Such as antihistamines and anxiolytics.
It seems that these symptoms are already affecting your daily life, so I recommend seeking medical evaluation to identify controllable factors.
Examples of controllable factors include:
1.
Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of vitamin B12, folate, etc.
2.
Intracranial lesions: Such as normal pressure hydrocephalus, brain tumors, or brain injuries.
3.
Metabolic abnormalities: Such as hypothyroidism or electrolyte imbalances.
4.
Central nervous system infections: Such as syphilis or HIV.
I suggest visiting a neurologist for further assessment and follow-up.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you good health, safety, and happiness.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Jiang Junyi

Reply Date: 2024/03/17

More Info

Memory issues, especially at a young age like 23, can be concerning and may indicate underlying cognitive decline or other health issues. Your experiences of forgetting recent events, such as what you wore yesterday or details about conversations, are indeed troubling and warrant further evaluation.
Firstly, it’s important to note that memory can be influenced by a variety of factors, including stress, anxiety, sleep quality, and even physical health conditions. Given your history of gastrointestinal issues and a past COVID-19 infection, these could potentially contribute to cognitive changes. Research has shown that COVID-19 can have neurological effects, including cognitive impairment, which some people refer to as "brain fog." This can manifest as difficulties with concentration, memory lapses, and other cognitive functions.

Your symptoms, such as forgetting recent events, struggling to recall specific details, and having a general sense of cognitive decline, could be indicative of several conditions. These might include:
1. Post-COVID Syndrome: Some individuals experience lingering effects after recovering from COVID-19, including cognitive difficulties. This is sometimes referred to as "long COVID."
2. Anxiety or Depression: Mental health conditions can significantly impact memory and cognitive function. If you are experiencing stress or anxiety, it could be affecting your ability to concentrate and remember.

3. Sleep Disorders: Poor sleep quality can lead to cognitive decline. If you are not getting enough restorative sleep, this could be a contributing factor.

4. Nutritional Deficiencies: Long-term gastrointestinal issues can lead to malabsorption of essential nutrients, which are crucial for brain health, such as B vitamins, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids.

5. Neurological Conditions: While less likely at your age, certain neurological conditions can cause memory issues. It’s important to rule these out with appropriate testing.

Given the frequency and severity of your memory lapses, it would be wise to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a healthcare professional. This may include:
- Neurological Assessment: A neurologist can conduct tests to evaluate your cognitive function and rule out any serious conditions.

- Psychological Evaluation: A mental health professional can assess for anxiety, depression, or other psychological factors that may be affecting your memory.

- Sleep Study: If sleep issues are suspected, a sleep study may help identify any underlying sleep disorders.

- Blood Tests: Checking for nutritional deficiencies or other metabolic issues can provide insight into your overall health.

In the meantime, there are several strategies you can employ to help improve your memory:
- Keep a Journal: Writing down daily activities can help reinforce your memory and provide a reference for later.

- Stay Organized: Use planners or digital reminders to keep track of important tasks and appointments.

- Practice Mindfulness: Techniques such as meditation can help improve focus and reduce anxiety, which may enhance memory.

- Engage in Cognitive Activities: Puzzles, reading, and learning new skills can stimulate your brain and improve cognitive function.

- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are crucial for brain health.

In conclusion, your memory issues are significant enough to warrant further evaluation. It’s essential to address these concerns with a healthcare provider who can guide you through the necessary assessments and potential treatments. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to seek help.

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