Memory Loss and Menopause

Life can be so frustrating during a woman’s menopausal years, especially when she experiences memory loss. Memory changes may be very subtle at first such as forgetting where she put the car keys or she may experience trouble finding the right words for a particular meaning. Because of hormonal changes and lack of estrogen in a woman’s body, menopause memory problems are quite normal.

Some of the challenges include trouble finding words, inability to pay attention, mood swings, irritability, and forgetfulness. None of these symptoms should be overlooked or left untreated but instead, dealt with by the woman’s physician as soon as she recognizes there is a problem.
 
Many studies show that quite often, a woman will not seek treatment at the beginning of symptoms because she is scared about what the doctor may find. Therefore, it is important that her family be supportive and that her physician carefully reviews her family history and performs a thorough exam to rule out other possible conditions. Treatment may have preventative value as well as remission of menopause memory problems.

To improve memory loss and menopause problems, there is a lot of information about certain herbs that have found to improve a woman’s memory. Probably the most well-known and studied is "Ginkgo Biloba". Some of its benefits include increased circulation and oxygen to the brain, which in turn helps improve short-term memory loss and mental clarity. Another herb is Asian Ginseng. In addition to restoring memory, this particular herb can also increase energy levels. Ginger is yet another herb that has been known to improve memory, as well as increase blood circulation and nutrients to all parts of the body and brain.
 
In addition to herbal remedies, some people prefer to go with a traditional form of treatment for menopause symptoms. For example, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a prescribed treatment that has been known to reduce menopause memory problems but because there have been some negative study results in recent years, it is very important to discuss the dosage and type of hormone replacement with the doctor. In fact, many women have now stopped taking HRT hormone replacement therapy because the risks outweigh the benefits.  While not every woman will experience some or any of these side effects, keep in mind there is risk for the possibility of developing breast cancer, stroke, blood clots, and heart disease.

To help put a woman’s mind at ease, here are a few suggested mind tools that could be used during this sometimes devastating time that may improve the menopause memory problems. She should try simplifying her life by making lists, placing things to be remembered together, and putting things back in the same place each time. What every woman should know is that these symptoms should be addressed and that if needed, there are many treatment options.