Do you have memory problems?

[David1949]

I've heard that MS can cause memory problems. I think I have that but its hard to say because, well we don't remember what we don't remember. So how would we remember what we forgot? But there seem to be frequent occassions when my wife or my daughters will mention something that we did in the last few years and I have no recollection of it at all. It's as if the slate was wiped clean.

So do you think you have suffered memory loss from MS?

[Algis]

I have an excellent memory of past events; but have great deals with short-term memory; like I was about to do something; but cant remember what... It is not too much an handicap; I use to fill sticky notes (virtual) on my screen.

But I voted "yes" because I think it is a big part of our memory "system"...

[elyse_peace]

yup, quite definitely. long-term memory does not seem too bad, but...
when i say i forget things, folks tell me to "write it down.' only trouble is, by the time i get a writing implement in hand, i've already forgotten why i want it!

[carolew]

That is my biggest fear... I am not as sharp as I was and I sure practice my brain as much as I can...

[jimmylegs]

wanted to say i don't remember for a lame joke. the answer really is, i used to have memory problems, but not any more.

[maynaka]

I have never experienced any memory or cognitive problems. All my issues are physical.

[Algis]

@maynaka: this is worth notice; thank you to remind me (no punt intended). My short-memory problem start to appear after my EDSS reached 7 or something; my very first problem were

- and still are -

Physical.

[maynaka]

David,

I recently started taking Acetyl L Carnitine as a recommended supplement for a program by Terry Wahls(diet, electrical stimulation and supplements). It is suppose to enhance alertness and mental focus.

My husband started taking it and has noticed an improvement in just a few weeks. He's stressed and overwhelmed at work and thought it's given him more clarity.

Perhaps our resident expert, JL could weigh in with her thoughts. I've learned much just from reading her posts.

[jimmylegs]

sure
two things have helped in a way that i definitely noticed: one, gingko biloba. two, zinc.
i think the zinc was more fundamentally helpful and that the gingko biloba acted as a temporary band-aid solution.
there's literature out there on the role of zinc and blood flow.
here's one interesting abstract:
http://sciencelinks.jp/j-east/article/2 ... 211932.php

there are other nutrients out there that are meant to be good for cognition. b-complex is one example. i did have low b vitamins initially, and i do supplement them now, but compared to gingko or zinc, i've never felt the same way after taking b-complex in terms of really getting a noticeable effect.

HTH!