$Unique_ID{BRK00663}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Proper Care to Help Regain Lost Memory}
$Subject{memory loss return illness Mental Emotional Conditions condition
brain reversible medication side effect effects medications thyroid metabolic
disorders alcohol abuse infections depression infection}
$Volume{E-1}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Proper Care to Help Regain Lost Memory


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QUESTION:  When my father returned from the hospital after a recent, severe
illness, he was not himself.  We have noticed that he has lost a great deal of
his memory, and that it might have been starting before his sickness.  Can
proper care do anything to help him regain his lost memory?

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ANSWER:  Possibly, depending on the cause of his problem.  And there are many
possibilities.  A careful evaluation is most important at this time.  And the
doctor who cared for your dad during his illness is a perfect resource.
     By reviewing the complete history before and after the illness and
conducting tests, the physician can tell if your father's memory loss can be
regained or stabilized.
     Most frequent causes of reversible memory loss are medications (for
various illnesses); thyroid conditions and other metabolic disorders; alcohol
abuse; infections; and depression.  Because of publicity, many people think of
Alzheimer's disease whenever someone begins to experience memory loss.  Some
elderly people do have that disease--but most do not.  Often, a diagnosis that
shows the problem is NOT from Alzheimer's disease will, in itself, relieve
anxiety and cause a patient to notice memory improvement rapidly.
     During evaluation, these are among the questions that should be
considered:

     - Has he recently lost a loved one, or moved to unfamiliar surroundings?
     - Did he tell you that his memory is failing?  Self-reporting, and
       embarrassment about the condition, often mean that the trouble can be
       successfully treated.
     - What is the nature of the memory loss?
     - Does he have a history of alcohol abuse, depression, or other
       psychiatric problems?
     - What medications is he taking?
     - Did he develop physical symptoms--such as skin coarsening, hair
       losses, or general disinterest about the time his memory began failing?
     - What was the reason for his hospitalization, and what treatments did
       he receive?

     Whatever the cause, please do NOT test him or try to train his memory
yourself.  Try to build on his strengths and keep tension as low as possible
until you can begin to unravel this common problem.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.