Brain Power Tips

Memory loss and MS (Multiple Sclerosis) go hand in hand.  40 to 50 percent of all MS sufferers experience memory loss as a symptom of the disease.  MS can damage many parts of the spinal cord and brain, but researchers are slowly coming to an understanding of how this happens.

The name “Multiple Sclerosis” comes from the scars, or scleroses, found in the nervous system.  MS afflicts over 400,000 people in the United States alone.  The cause is unknown and it affects the nerves in the brain and spinal cord, damaging them and creating scar tissue.  Women are more likely to get MS and can experience symptoms such as difficulty walking, speech problems, eye damage, fatigue and depression.

Memory loss is another common complication of MS.  Patients often forget small things ranging from school schedules to where they put their wallet or handbag.  It seems only to affect the short term memory; while an MS patient may remember how to  get to the store, they may forget where they put their keys or parked their cars. Memory loss and MS are directly related, and lack of short term memory can cause a “distant” feeling or depression in those with MS.

There is no known cure or preventative measures for MS, but many sufferers combat the symptoms of memory loss by creating to-do lists.  By writing down appointments and locations some who have the disease are able to live normally, though for some the memory loss is so severe that they are unable to work or even live normal everyday lives.

Unfortunately, memory loss and MS patients from other areas such as stroke or brain  injury can have trouble adjusting to their conditions.  Scientists are continually working on a cure but need to find the cause first.  But by keeping lists to guide them, patients can strive to lead normal lives.

Memory Loss, Old Age and How You Can Prevent Senility