Forgetting is a natural phenomenon that everyone experiences from time to time. However, in some cases, it may indicate a serious health issue that requires medical consultation.
According to the Federal Chamber of Psychotherapists in Germany, forgetfulness has multiple causes, ranging from minor to severe. Simple causes include lack of sleep, physical or mental exhaustion, and psychological stress.
Forgetfulness may also result from dehydration, poor nutrition, or the use of certain medications, all of which can negatively affect cognitive and mental performance.
A Serious Health Concern
In some instances, forgetfulness may be a warning sign of a serious physical or psychological health condition, such as thyroid disorders, heart failure, impaired cerebral circulation, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, or depression.
Therefore, the chamber emphasized the importance of consulting a doctor if forgetfulness persists for a prolonged period or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as difficulty finding words or misplacing objects—such as putting a wallet in the refrigerator—which could indicate dementia.
Possible Underlying Conditions
Forgetfulness may also be linked to thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism, which manifests in symptoms like fatigue, lethargy, weight gain, brittle nails, and dry skin. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism may cause symptoms like anxiety, rapid heartbeat, and sleep disturbances.
Additionally, forgetfulness could be an early sign of Parkinson’s disease, which is characterized by hand tremors, heavy-footed walking, and slowed movements.
It may also indicate depression, which presents with symptoms such as sleep disturbances, anxiety, lack of motivation and interest, low self-esteem, social withdrawal, and even thoughts of self-harm.
