You know you have poor memory when you find yourself suddenly forgetting something you have always known, or when you forget what you have just heard, or worse: when you start experiencing such lapses in memory more frequently. While having poor memory is very common, especially in older adults, you should be concerned if it starts getting in the way of your normal day-to-day activities.
There are of course cases of memory loss that are related to diseases like Alzheimer's, Huntington's and Parkinson's, as well as the experience of trauma. For most people, however, developing poor memory is age-related. It is usually more obvious in the elderly, but even much younger people can have memory problems too. The good thing is that knowing what causes memory loss and lack of focus can help you in preventing or reversing it.
Memory loss is a sign of neuron (nerve cell) degeneration in the brain, which lessens its ability to store and recall information. Neuron degeneration is part of normal aging, which can start from your 20s, when your body fails to supply enough of the necessary chemicals to the brain and also slows down its ability to regenerate or produce new cells. But while this is normal, there are also external factors that can contribute to having poor memory, all of which can be avoided.
So what else causes memory loss and lack of focus?
One usual cause of poor memory is poor nutrition. If your diet lacks the nutrients your brain cells need, then your mind cannot function at its best. Omega 3 and B vitamins are essential brain nutrients that you should get from your regular diet. Antioxidants from fruits can also help fight the oxidation process that deteriorates neurons.
Poor blood circulation affects memory function as well. It is of course the blood that delivers oxygen and nutrients that the brain needs. Those who suffer from high blood pressure and low blood pressure may find it more difficult to concentrate, memorize or remember information.
Another factor that can cause memory loss and lack of focus is stress. When you are preoccupied with worries, you have a greater tendency to lose interest and focus, and become more forgetful. Stress, if not managed properly, may also develop into depression and dementia.
Not getting enough sleep likewise causes poor memory and other brain functions. Without enough rest, the brain can slow down processing of information, causing a person to lose concentration, get easily confused or even blank out.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is another common cause of memory loss as it can really damage neurons. Aside from carbon monoxide, you should also avoid exposure to other harmful chemicals like lead, mercury and chemicals found in paints and pesticides.
Drinking too much alcohol or taking prohibited substances can seriously damage brain and nerve cells too. While the disruption of normal brain function is only obvious when someone is drunk or under drug influence, the damage is much more permanent and can affect that person's memory at a later time. Similarly, certain prescribed sedatives and anesthetics likewise cause poor memory and lack of focus.
