What Are the Causes of Mental Fog, Loss of Memory & Forgetfulness?

Things like memory loss, forgetfulness, and mental fog are not uncommon, therefore, trying to pinpoint their cause is often difficult. If the memory loss is severe, it may be a sign of something serious, and medical advice should be sought.

Aging

• Memory loss is common as one ages. If aging is the primary cause of forgetfulness, then mental exercises, like sudoku and crosswords, can be performed to improve memory.

Brain Damage

• Brain damage can cause forgetfulness. This mental fog may be caused by direct head trauma or brain surgery.

Electroconvulsive Therapy

• Long-term electroconvulsive therapy can cause mental fog. Depression itself may also cause this.

Strokes and Seizures

• Forgetfulness may be caused by a stroke. Seizures can also produce similar side effects.

Substance Abuse

• Frequent alcohol use can impair mental functions such as memory. This can also come from other drug abuse.

Medications

• Medications may cause memory loss. The medications that can do this range from anesthetics to barbiturates.