Memory Tests

Forgetfulness in Younger People

Our ability to focus attention willfully, and to maintain that focus (referred to as concentration), ultimately define memory formation and retrieval.

When interrupted at any point during this process the result would be forgetfulness irrespective of cause. As such dealing with memory symptoms in people younger than 60 always involve optimizing attention deficit.

However, some physical illnesses can cause significant memory impairment in Patients of all ages:

Deficiency syndromes for whatever reason such as vitamin B12-, folate-, iron- and vit D deficiency may cause significant cognitive impairment. Understanding the underlying cause thereof is then also crucial.

Hormonal fluctuations such as thyroid problems, menopausal brain fog or hormonal manipulation such as during the treatment of gynaecological cancers have clear memory effects.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) sadly has a higher incidence in the young with many cognitive reports early or particularly later in time.

Various cancers and particularly chemotherapy have very distinct attention, memory and even specific cognitive symptoms.

Central nervous system (CNS) condition such as after meningitis or encephalitis, or common illnesses such as epilepsy often cause significant symptoms.

Many COVID-sufferers have reported various cognitive deficits such as general brain fog, specific attention deficit (ADD) syndromes or even specific cognitive impairments.

Additionally critical life-style and mental health aspects can equally contribute to memory impairment in the young:

Stress in general often affect memory detrimentally through very physical pathways such as the release of stress-related chemicals such as cortisol.
Lack of or poor quality sleep has been long established to affect cognition detrimentally.
Emotional disorders most notably depression, anxiety and in some instances their treatments often contribute clearly to forgetfulness.
Substance abuse like alcohol use disorder, cannabis intoxication and several other drugs of abuse can even contribute to permanent memory problems if not addressed as a matter of urgency.
Various medications particularly pain-, sleep- and calming tablets often lead to memory problems if over-used.

In all instances it is crucial to consider all possible causes as a specific diagnosis is always the crucial first step of improving memory in the young.

NEUROCARE has established a proven track record of offering excellent early detection programs, impeccable management of all types of forgetfulness, and meticulous follow-up systems enabling critical intervention timelessly.