Multiple sclerosis may lead to mild short-term memory loss that can affect your ability to recall information. Lifestyle changes could help you manage symptoms.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory condition that damages the protective sheath (myelin) around nerve fibers. It can also damage the nerves themselves.
When myelin and nerves in your central nervous system are damaged, lesions develop. These lesions disrupt the transmission of neural signals, which can cause physical and cognitive symptoms.
MS most commonly causes physical symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, muscle weakness, and numbness. However, if lesions develop on parts of the brain that process memories, it can lead to memory loss.
Some research suggests that over 6 in 10 people with MS experience memory loss. Brain lesions may also affect other cognitive functions, such as attention, concentration, and ability to process information.
Keep reading to learn more about the link between memory loss and MS and what you can do about it.
The exact cause of cognitive decline and memory loss in MS isn’t fully understood. However, researchers have identified several possible challenges in different information processes that may impact memory loss.
According to a 2021 study, the two possible mechanisms involved in memory loss in MS that researchers tend to agree the most upon include:
- Retrieval: This refers to more difficulty retrieving information from the past, such as names or daily tasks.
- Acquisition: This refers to more difficulty acquiring new information, such as words and names, and then remembering them shortly after.
A third possible mechanism that may affect memory in MS is retention, which is the ability to retain information and memories. However, the authors note that this isn’t usually affected in MS and is a distinguishing factor between MS and other cognitive conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
The Multiple Sclerosis Society (MSS) notes that MS may also affect other facets of memory, including:
- Episodic memory: This refers to remembering more long-term memories.
- Prospective memory: This refers to remembering something in the future, such as a task, appointment, or birthday.
People with MS will usually remember how to do everyday things, such as writing and putting on clothes. However, in rare cases, the impact of MS on memory could start affecting your daily activities.
According to the MSS, the most common effects of MS on memory include verbal and short-term memory loss. For instance, this may include:
- having difficulty finding the right words for everyday objects
- having difficulty concentrating or processing language during conversations
- having trouble remembering recent events or conversations
- forgetting where you put your car keys, phone, or wallet
- forgetting to take your medication or complete other daily tasks
- forgetting where you’re going when you’re driving or walking
You might also experience difficulty problem-solving.
Although MS is more likely to affect your short-term memory, it can sometimes worsen over time, leading to long-term memory loss as well.
Can MS cause early dementia?
A 2023 study examined the effects of MS and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NOSD) on dementia.
The researchers found that people with either condition had a higher risk of developing dementia than people without the conditions. Moreover, people with MS had a greater risk than people with NOSD.
That said, more research is needed to examine the link between MS and dementia.
Many disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) have been developed to slow the progression of MS. DMTs may help prevent or delay memory loss by preventing the growth of brain lesions.
Limited research has examined their effect on cognition and memory loss in people with MS.
According to a
Other medications, known as symptomatic drugs, are also used to help treat MS symptoms.
However, overall, researchers note that not enough research supports the use of pharmacological treatments to help improve cognition and symptoms of memory loss in MS.
Certain medications used to help treat other chronic conditions like depression, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular diseases may affect cognition and contribute to memory loss. Some medications for sleeping conditions and pain relief may impact memory, too.
MS can affect different aspects of your physical and mental health, as well as your lifestyle habits. In turn, this may indirectly affect your memory.
For example, people with MS may have more difficulty sleeping. Some
MS also raises your risk of anxiety and depression. In turn, depression and anxiety have been
Unrelated health conditions and lifestyle factors may also contribute to memory loss,
- older age
- head injuries
- nutrient deficiencies
- conditions that affect the liver, kidneys, brain, and thyroid
- alcohol use disorder
If you have MS and experience memory changes, the first thing to do is speak with a healthcare professional. They can assess your memory with screening tools and refer you to a specialist who can do comprehensive testing.
Testing for cognition and memory loss may include a variety of exercises to assess your memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills. This may also include questions about your lifestyle and medical history.
A doctor may also order imaging tests to check for lesions on your brain. They might order other tests to check for nutritional deficiencies or other potential causes of memory loss.
To help limit memory loss, they may recommend one or more of the following:
- memory exercises or other cognitive rehabilitation strategies
- changes to your sleep schedule, exercise routine, or other lifestyle habits
- changes to your medication or supplement regimen
- new or different treatments
You can also use a variety of memory tools and techniques to cope with memory loss in your daily life. For example, it might be helpful to:
- Use a calendar to keep track of important appointments and other commitments.
- Set smartphone alerts or put up sticky notes to remind yourself to take medications, attend medical appointments, or complete other tasks.
- Carry a notebook with you or use a smartphone app to record important thoughts that you want to remember later.
MS can potentially affect your memory in direct and indirect ways. Most commonly, it may affect your ability to retrieve verbal information from the past or acquire new information and recall it in the short term.
If you experience symptoms of memory loss, speak with a healthcare professional. They can help you identify the causes of your memory loss and develop strategies to manage it.