You are concerned about your memory. Sometimes, you lose your train of thought in mid-sentence, and you can't remember what you are saying. Or you're about to dial a phone number, and the rest of the numbers escape you. Names and dates can also be forgotten in an instant. You hear about Alzheimer's and you get scared. What's wrong with you?
Chances are, nothing - especially if you are in the age where you're supposed to be in perimenopause.
As with any other symptom, perimenopause memory loss is due to a female hormone imbalance. A diminishing level of estrogen affects certain functions of the brain with regards to moods, language skills and memory.
Though this is the major reason for perimenopausal women, other grounds should be considered as well. If you drink alcohol, stress too much over work, don't sleep much at night, have a bad diet or are taking antidepressants, sleeping pills and the like, then congratulations! You are a likely candidate for memory lapses.
Of course, not every memory lapse moment can be blamed on perimenopause. If you are having difficulty remembering information or routine activities that you've done for years, it's best to consult a doctor to rule out Alzheimer's disease, cancer, attention deficit disorder, and dementia.
Still, for every memory lapse, there is a possible solution. As always recommended, now is a good chance to adjust your diet from carb-enriched, fatty foods to a wide host of fruits and vegetables. Take vitamins B, C, D and E as not only are they known for their antioxidant powers, but they are also important for proper brain functioning. Studies recently show that Omega-3 fatty acids aid in mind function, thereby improving memory. Try playing memory games as well, like word puzzles, Sudoku and Boggle.
Medicine also provides a solution, claiming that there are drugs you can take for memory improvement. With this however, it is best that you talk to a trusted doctor as the risk of suffering other debilitating symptoms (that are not related to perimenopause) are high.
Alternative medicine actually offers a natural, easy and affordable solution as this addresses the common root of the problem, which is hormonal imbalance. Less of a risk too, since these all stem from herbs and plants.
Some women may suffer severe mental lapses, while the effects on others may not be so brutal. But it is always good to remember that every memory problem has a solution. The best way is to do research about it and to still consult a doctor so you can both talk about possible tests and treatments you can take. If you feel uncomfortable about certain things, tell your doctor so you can work out a compromise. Be informed, and base your decisions on what you know. The final choice still lies on you.
Perimenopause Symptom - Memory Lapses