Short Term Memory Loss: First Signs, Causes, Treatment, and More

What is Memory Loss?

Memory loss is the inability to recall information, experiences, or learned skills. It can be temporary or permanent and affects both short-term and long-term memory.

Short term memory loss is the inability to retain information for a brief period, such as forgetting where you placed your keys or a phone number you just looked up.

On the other hand, long term memory loss involves a more severe or lasting inability to recall events or facts accumulated over time.

Memory loss can occur due to various causes, including aging, medical conditions, or traumatic events. It may affect one’s daily life, relationships, and welfare and require attention and proper care.

What is Short Term Memory Loss?

Short Term Memory Loss

Short term memory loss is when you forget things for a short time. It’s usually about forgetting recent information, like where you put your phone or what you ate for lunch. This type of memory loss affects daily tasks and can happen to anyone at any age.

Short-term memory loss that involves forgetting older memories and experiences is different from long-term memory loss.

It may happen more often with stress, fatigue, or aging. It’s usually temporary but can also be a sign of an underlying condition.

Relationship Between Short-Term and Long-Term Memory

Relationship Between Short-Term and Long-Term Memory

Short-term and long-term memory are closely connected, but they serve different purposes. Short-term memory holds information briefly, like a phone number you just looked up.

It can only hold a few things at once, usually about seven items. It keeps info for just a few seconds unless you keep thinking about it.

Long-term memory, on the other hand, can store a huge amount of information for much longer (anywhere from hours to a lifetime).

While short-term memory is brief, long-term memory stores and holds information from way back, like important life events or facts you’ve learned over time.

Information usually moves from short-term to long-term memory with repetition or focus. If you don’t pay attention or the information isn’t important, it may stay in short-term memory or be forgotten.

Both types of memory work together but can be affected by different issues, like stress or age.

How is Short-Term Memory Loss Diagnosed?

Doctors typically start with a physical exam and a medical history review to diagnose short-term memory loss. They may ask about recent memory issues, like forgetting names or appointments.

Tests may include:

• Cognitive memory tests check how well you can remember and process information.
• Brain imaging, like an MRI or CT scan, to rule out other conditions.
• Blood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies or infections.

For short memory loss in seniors, doctors may also look for signs of dementia or other cognitive memory impairment. Early diagnosis is key to manage and treat short term memory loss.

What Causes Short-Term Memory Loss?

Short-Term Memory Loss

According to Dr. Michael M. Merzenich, Neuroscientist and Author of “Soft-Wired,”

Memory loss is often a signal that the brain’s neural networks are not being exercised or maintained. The brain thrives on use, and the more you challenge it with new tasks, the better it can perform, even as we age.

Several factors can cause short-term memory loss. Common short term memory loss causes include:

• Stress and Anxiety: High stress levels can make it hard to focus and remember things.
• Lack of Sleep: Sleep is crucial for memory, and poor sleep can affect short-term memory and concentration.
• Age: As people age, it’s normal to experience some degree of short term memory loss in seniors.
• Medications: Certain drugs, especially sedatives and antidepressants, can interfere with memory.
• Health Conditions: Issues like depression, thyroid problems, or infections can contribute to memory issues.
• Trauma or Injury: Head injuries can lead to short-term memory impairment or cognitive memory problems.
• Lack of physical activity: People who have sedentary jobs but hardly do any exercise are at risk of memory loss. A Neurological Clinical Practice Journal study (a journal by the American Academy of Neurology) points to how lifestyle factors can delay the onset of memory issues.

In some cases, short-term memory loss in young adults may be caused by lifestyle factors, like excessive alcohol use or lack of mental stimulation.

What Are the First Signs of Short-Term Memory Loss?

The first signs of short term memory loss can be subtle. Someone showing signs of short-term memory loss might ask the same questions over and over, forget where they are, or struggle to remember recent events. They might also forget something they just saw or read.

Early signs include:

• Forgetting recent events: You may forget what you just did or ate.
• Misplacing items: You might lose things like keys or your phone.
• Difficulty following conversations: You may struggle to remember details from a recent chat.
• Repeating questions: You ask the same thing without realizing it.
• Forgetting appointments or tasks: You miss meetings or forget plans.

So, if you notice these signs of short term memory loss, check the treatment options highlighted below.

According to Dr. Sandra Bond Chapman, Founder and Chief Director of the Center for BrainHealth,

Short-term memory loss often reflects a breakdown in the brain’s ability to organize and prioritize new information. Repeated forgetfulness can be a sign that the brain needs more rest, stimulation, or specific cognitive exercises to improve memory function.

Treatment for short term memory loss depends on the cause. Common treatments include:

• Treating underlying conditions: Fixing stress, depression, or sleep issues can improve memory.
• Medications: Doctors may prescribe drugs to help with short term memory loss, manage symptoms, or improve brain function.
• Cognitive therapy: Therapy can help improve memory and teach coping skills.
• Lifestyle changes: Regular brain exercises, a healthy diet, and good sleep habits support memory.
• Memory aids: Reminders, notes, or apps help manage tasks and improve memory.
• Supplements: Certain nootropic supplements, like CogniUltra, may improve brain function and support memory.

For short term memory loss in seniors, doctors may suggest treatments based on the cause and severity. Early treatment can slow further memory loss.

The National Institute of Aging has the following advice to help manage forgetfulness. They say you should try learning new skills, sticking to a daily routine, and using tools like to-do lists and calendars. Keep essentials like your wallet, keys, and phone in the same place each day.

Stay active with activities that engage both your mind and body, like volunteering or spending time with family and friends.

Prioritize sleep (7–8 hours), exercise, and healthy eating, while managing blood pressure and limiting alcohol. If you're feeling depressed for weeks, seek help.

What Are the Possible Risks of Short-Term Memory Loss?

Short term memory loss can lead to several risks:

• Safety concerns: When you forget to do a task or misplace an item at work, your safety and that of others may be threatened.
• Trouble with daily tasks: You may start to miss appointments or neglect details and this can disrupt your routines and add stress.
• Damage to relationships: You tend to forget conversations or events you planned with family or coworkers, and this can harm bonds.
• Reduced quality of life: Memory loss can bring frustration, worry, or sadness.
• Increased chance of severe memory loss: Short-term memory loss may signal a more serious condition, such as dementia or Alzheimer's.

Short-term memory loss in seniors may pose risks, as it may indicate a condition that needs quick care.

Short Term Memory Loss in Young Adults & Adults

Short-term memory loss can affect young adults and adults, although the causes may differ.

For short term memory loss in young adults, common causes include:

• Stress and Anxiety: High stress can make it hard to focus and remember recent events.
• Sleep Deprivation: Lack of sleep reduces memory retention and makes it harder to recall details.
• Lifestyle Choices: Alcohol or drug use can interfere with memory function.
• Mental Fatigue: Overwork or lack of mental rest can cause memory lapses.

For adults, short term memory loss may stem from:

• Chronic Stress: Ongoing stress from work or personal life can affect memory.
• Health Conditions: Issues like depression or chronic illness can disrupt memory.
• Medication Side Effects: Some medications can impair memory.
• Cognitive Decline: As people age, short term memory loss may signal conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s.

When to See a Doctor for Short-Term Memory Loss

If you notice short term memory loss, see a doctor if:

• Memory problems worsen: If forgetfulness affects daily life, like forgetting tasks, appointments, or conversations.
• Frequent memory lapses: If short term memory loss happens more often or lasts for long periods.
• Difficulty with simple tasks: If you struggle to remember things from just a few minutes ago, like where you placed your keys.
• Mood changes or confusion: Memory loss comes with confusion, anxiety, or mood swings.
• Risk factors are present: If you have a family history of dementia or Alzheimer’s or if you have conditions like depression or chronic illness.