Does this sound familiar?

[Fingal123]

I have been noticing changes about myself and was wondering if this sounds familiar to anybody.

I am becoming increasingly forgetful as far as short term memory goes, literally from one minute to the next and even in conversation. I look at a person i know and think they have a different name, thename being of another person. I go to look for something and forgt what it is i was looking for before i get there.

When speaking sometimes i doesnt sound like me speaking, i stutter and perhaps dont speak because i think i might stutter. Sometimes my voice comes out croaky, quiet or sounds higher pitched than normal.

Im not aware of any family history so an not sure what to do. My long term memory is fine, still a demon at the pub quizzes even if i do say so myself

Thanks in advance for any help and advice.

 

[Katrine]

Hi Fingal, I can tell you are worried but you've come to the right place for sensible advice from a wide range of people who are experts in life if not medical experts.

For a start, have a look at the information on this link to get a feel for what is 'normal' in terms of memory lapses as we get older: http://www.helpguide.org/life/prevent_memory_loss.htm

This web page also gives information about temporary and reversible memory loss, e.g. caused by illness or medication. There are tips on memory aids and advice on when you need to consider speaking to a doctor about your memory.

 

[creativesarah]

keeping a diary helps get things into context and helps the docs too
it really helped in my case
you know the sort of thing where it happened, who it happened with, you might see a pattern

 

[AlsoConfused]

if I were in your situation, yes I'd keep a diary (noting down any relevant events I remember from the recent past) and I'd also see my GP ASAP. I'd tell him / her about the memory problems but I'd also be asking for a full scale physical exam and possible referral to hospital specialists.

You're obviously on this site because you're worried about your memory. All sorts of things cause memory and speech problems, though, and some of them are very easy to sort out (eg vitamin deficiency, thyroid problems etc). Good luck!