MEMORY DISORDERS

Memory disorders are a category of neurological disorders that primarily affect learning and memory. They include the different subsets of amnesia, dementia, and delirium. Memory disorders are defined as any disorder that significantly impairs the cognitive function of an individual to the point where normal daily functioning is affected.

Some memory disorders develop in stages. Symptoms tend to increase in severity the further the disease progresses. Alzheimer’s, for example, begins with the patient showing very minor signs of forgetfulness and it slowly progresses into more obvious memory difficulties.

The initial symptoms of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease are sometimes brushed off as normal gaps in memory or forgetfulness. This can make it especially difficult to diagnose early on. Alzheimer’s is one of the most common memory disorders, affecting approximately 5.1 million Americans.

CTE, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, is a condition which causes memory loss and is made at the time of autopsy. It is caused by repetitive head trauma and often seen in football players or from playing other contact sports. There is a growing field of literature for the diagnosis and treatment for CTE though there is no cure at this time. Dr. Cook is a part of the NFL concussion settlement program and is one of few select MAF and BAP neurologists who is able to assess NFL players involved in the settlement due to concussion related injuries.

If you or a loved one is suffering from a memory disorder and are in need of an experienced memory disorder provider, contact BNL Health today: 310-277-9534

Some common cognitive disorders include:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Post-concussion syndrome
• Traumatic brain injury
• Developmental disorders
• Substance-induced cognitive impairment

What Causes a MEMORY Disorder?

Like most mental disorders, memory disorders are caused by a variety of factors. Some are due to hormonal imbalances in the womb, others to genetic predisposition and still others to environmental factors. Common environmental causes of memory disorders include a lack of proper nutrients and interaction during vulnerable stages of cognitive development, particularly during infancy.

Other common causes of memory disorder include substance abuse and physical injury. When an area of the brain that determines cognitive function is damaged, either by the excessive use of drugs, by alcohol or from physical trauma, those neurophysiological changes can result in cognitive dysfunction.

When Should You Seek Cognitive Disorder Treatment?

Memory disorder signs vary according to the individual and the particular disorder. It is important to seek evaluation for diagnosis and possible treatment. Some of the most common signs of memory disorder include:



• Confusion
• Forgetfulness
• Impaired judgement
• Changes in personality

Finding a licensed and reputable memory disorder specialist can be challenging. At BNL Health, Dr. Lisa Cook is a trained expert in diagnosing and treating Alzheimer's disease and other dementia illnesses.

If you or a loved one is suffering from cognitive issues and are in need of an experienced memory disorder specialist, contact BNL Health today: 310-277-9534