Memory loss and forgetfulness are just a part of life, a part of the natural process of aging. But gradual progression of memory loss can be a sign and symptom of a more serious underlying issue.
Gradual memory loss can be caused by a number of issues. Gradual memory loss can be a side effect of certain drugs or a vitamin B-12 deficiency. Thiamine deficiency is also another reason why your memory could be getting progressively worse.
Of course, there are the obvious concerns, such as Alzheimer’s Disease, Huntington’s Disease, or Parkinson’s Disease. Alzheimer’s is specifically a neurological disorder that affects your memory in a more serious and permanent sense. Alzheimer’s Disease is more typical in older patients and can involve serious memory loss, such as the inability to perform daily tasks or forgetting family members’ names, familiar locations, and skills.
Tumors, lesions, and cancer can sometimes cause gradual memory loss, and should be considered and tested if other neurological exams do not show any of the more obvious concerns. A doctor may perform several tests and neurological exams in order to determine the reason behind your gradual memory loss and to give a proper and accurate diagnosis of the issue at hand.
Other issues, such as HIV and AIDS, can also cause gradual memory loss and shouldn’t be overlooked during diagnosis. There are numerous reasons why one might be suffering from a more gradual progression of memory loss, but the sooner you catch the issue, the better medical care and treatment you can receive for the issue diagnosed by your doctor.