When to See a Doctor for Memory Loss
Amy Barczy
| 3 min read
Amy Barczy is a former brand journalist who authored content at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Prior to her time at Blue Cross from 2019-2024, she was a statewide news reporter for MLive.com. She has a decade of storytelling experience in local news media markets including Lansing, Grand Rapids, Holland, Ann Arbor and Port Huron.
Forgetfulness is a normal part of the aging process. Losing the car keys, forgetting someone’s name and missing a bill payment are typically minor memory problems that don’t present an issue. But when those minor hiccups become an everyday occurrence, it can sometimes be a sign of a bigger problem. The earlier an individual can visit a doctor to discuss their concerns, the better – especially as treatments can be prescribed or adjustments made to lessen the symptoms.
Memory loss from dementia
Dementia is not a sign of normal aging but a medical disease that can be treated. It includes many types of progressive brain disorders where overall cognition declines, and the individual has problems with memory, communication, language and decision-making to the point where it severely affects their life. Making the correct diagnosis is extremely important because some types of dementia are curable or treatable. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease. The National Institute on Aging offers advice on what individuals can expect from the normal aging process, versus signs of Alzheimer’s disease:
Other signs of potential dementia include:
- Asking the same question over and over
- Decline in personal hygiene
- Difficulty doing things that should be familiar
- Mood changes
- Problems with vision, spatial awareness and judging distance
- Trouble with problem-solving or planning things in advance
- Withdrawing from social life
Memory loss from medical problems
Aging isn’t the only factor in memory loss. Some medical issues can affect your memory. In these cases, memory loss is reversible, according to the Mayo Clinic:
- Alcoholism
- Brain diseases, including a tumor or brain infection
- Emotional disorders including stress, anxiety and depression
- Hypothyroidism
- Medications can cause forgetfulness or confusion
- Minor head trauma or head injury
- Sleep apnea
- Vitamin B-12 deficiency
Find a doctor
If you have concerns about your own memory loss, or the memory loss of a loved one, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a doctor. Primary care providers are a good place to start. They can screen you for medical issues and refer you to specialists if needed after a diagnosis. Consider taking a family member or friend to the appointment to assist in answering questions. Prepare yourself to answer questions such as:
- Are you experiencing new stress, a major change or had a sudden loss?
- Have you recently been in an accident, fallen or hurt your head?
- What medications are you taking?
- When did problems with your memory begin?
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network members can find a doctor near them by using the Find a Doctor tool, available on both bcbsm.com and the BCBSM mobile app. More from MIBluesPerspectives:
- More Americans Being Diagnosed with Dementia
- Michigan Woman with Celiac Disease Helps Others Adjust with Dietary Tips and Advice
- Men’s Health Needs, Decade by Decade
Photo credit: Getty Images
