thread: When does memory problems become concerning?

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  1. #1
    BellyBelly Member

    Dec 2005
    3,130

    When does memory problems become concerning?

    I think you should seek medical advice too.

  2. #2
    Registered User

    Dec 2008
    Brisbane, QLD
    5,171

    Definately get checked out. That doesnt sound normal at all.

  3. #3
    Registered User

    Aug 2006
    On the other side of this screen!!!
    11,129

    I think if it's affecting your functioning, then it's time to get it checked out. Especially in the context of having had a neurological event like a seizure.

    I've struggled with processing memory problems since I had chemo, so I fully understand how alarming it is. Processing or short term memory problems aren't about being able to retrieve memories, it's about whether you catch the info in the first place, whether you are able to pay attention to it long enough for it to even become a memory. So it's just as much about attention as memory, if that makes sense.

    One thing that can have a major, massive effect on memory and attention is the quality of your sleep. Some medications and even a high fever can mess with memory as well. Depression/anxiety can have a huge effect too. And lots of people are attentionally challenged these days - just because of all the sensory input we're getting from tvs, radios, handheld devices. Maybe the conversation about the BBQ was one of those where DH was chatting to you while you were actually concentrating on something else, kwim? So what you're experiencing might be within the bounds of normal (even if it's at the outer edge of normal) or it might not. But I think the important thing here is if you're struggling then you should get it all checked. Not being able to complete tasks (like driving somewhere) is a good sign that you're struggling.

  4. #4
    Registered User

    Apr 2008
    Melbourne
    6,745

    I do think you need to get it checked out as it is affecting your daily functioning and clearly upsetting you. In the meantime I would use a diary and write down things as they are discussed - so for example when you discuss the BBQ write on the date that it was discussed and make sure you mark in your diary the date it is happening so that at least you have some sort of control around what is going on in your life. Even without the issues you have described I find that I can't function properly without writing things down in a calendar as I just never remember everything that is going on.