Condition
Memory disorders
Memory disorders affect a person's ability to remember, think, or reason. Dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, is one cause. Some memory problems come from treatable conditions such as thyroid or vitamin issues. A neurologist assesses memory with the history, examination, and tests to find the cause and plan support.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Priya Raman, MBBS, MD, DM (Neurology) —
About memory disorders
Memory disorders affect thinking skills such as memory, attention, language, and reasoning. Dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, is one group of causes. Not all memory problems are dementia. Some come from conditions that can be treated, such as thyroid problems, vitamin deficiency, depression, or side effects of medicines.
Symptoms
Signs that are worth assessing include:
- Forgetting recent events or repeating questions
- Difficulty finding words or following conversations
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Trouble with planning or everyday tasks
- Changes in mood or behaviour
When to get help now
Memory change is usually assessed at a routine appointment rather than as an emergency. Seek urgent help if confusion comes on suddenly over hours or days, or with fever, headache, or weakness, as this points to a different, acute problem.
This website is for information and appointments. It is not monitored for emergencies. For a suspected stroke or seizure, call 108 for an ambulance or go to the nearest emergency department.
How it is diagnosed
A neurologist assesses memory from the history, often with a family member present, and from an examination and memory tests. Blood tests look for treatable causes, and a brain scan is used when it will help. The aim is to find the cause, not only to label the symptom.
How it is managed
Care depends on the cause. Where a treatable condition is found, treating it may help. For dementia, care focuses on support, safety, planning, and treating symptoms, involving the family and other services. The plan is made with each person and their carers.
Sources
Medically reviewed by Dr. Priya Raman, MBBS, MD, DM (Neurology) —
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Short answers to the questions patients ask most.
Is memory loss always dementia?
No. Some memory problems are caused by conditions that can be treated, such as thyroid or vitamin problems, depression, or medicines. An assessment aims to find the cause.
Should a family member come to the appointment?
It often helps. Someone who knows the person well can describe changes that the person may not notice, which gives the neurologist a fuller picture.
Appointments
Plan your visit.
Share your contact details and the clinic will call you to arrange a visit.