In the previous article, we discussed memory loss caused by Alzheimer's Disease.  Alzheimer's is a fatal disease that destroys the brain.  It affects all people differently and can take years before it is even diagnosed.  We highlighted the ten common signs of Alzheimer's in order to promtoe early detection and treatment.  As was also mentioned, there are several other causes to memory loss that range from simple age related symptoms to poor nutrition, disease, inury, etc...
    
     General aging is the most common cause for memory loss.  Once we reach 25 years of age, the body stops producing new nerve cells.  With an average loss of 1% nerve cell a year, the average person will have lost 1/3 of their memory functioning by age 70. This usually affects the recent memory (what you ate for lunch, where you put your keys, etc...) Some simple solutions to dealing with these occurences are:

*Keep lists
*Follow a routine
*Keep a detailed calendar
*Repeat nakes when you meet someone new
*Keep your mind and body busy

    The majority of other causes of memory loss can be treated and the loss reversed. Some of these, as indicated on mayoclinic.org, include:

MEDICATIONS.   Some medications have been found to cause temporary memory loss or mimic
               the signs of Alzheimer's Disease.  A change in medication can restore memory. 

MINOR HEAD INJURY.  Injury or trauma to the head can cause tempoary memory loss.  Talk to
                    your doctor if you experience this after an accident.

DEPRESSION/MENTAL DISORDER.  Stress, anxiety and depression can cause confusion and memory
                             loss.  Especially in the elderly.  When these symptoms pass,
                             the memory is restored and things become clearer.

ALCOHOL.  Alcohol can interact with medicines and cause memory loss.  Chronic alcoholism
          can seriously impair mental abilities.

VITAMIN B-12 DEFICIENCY.  B-12 hleps maintain healthy nerve cells and red blood cells.  Lack
                          of this vitamin can cause memory loss.

If you, or someone you know, is experiene problems of forgetfulness and/or memory loss, contact your physician.  Mist doctors will go over family history and administer several tests to try and determine the cause.  As is the case for most health issues, diet and exercise can play a large role in prevention and cure.