Lack of Concentration and Memory

[Baba420]

I am 50 years old and have had a short memory and a lack of

concentration all my life. I can read something and when I'm done

I can't remember what I read. I will be driving my normal

route to work and stop at a stop sign and not remember passing

everything on the way. It's as if I was sleeping and all the

sudden wake up. I am fed-up with this probem. Infact I am working in the managerial position and I have lot of problem in remembering my work. In the meeitngs, when the things are disucssed I lose the discussion, not remembering anything. Intermittently I have taken Anti-depresant drugs which include Fluoxitene, Cipran and Cipralex. Afer taking drug for sometime I have hang over effect and hence I leave them. Cipralex used to suit me, but now I have started developing Rash with its use. I am very much confused as what to do. I want to keep studying but the problem is that I do not do well in exams because of poor memory. I am a medical doctor but not doing Clinical work and involved as Training Specialist.

I really need some kind of help, otherwise there is a fear that might loose my job.

[upsetwoman]

I agree with Bulldozer on having a concentration problem.  I am going through the same.  I consider myself smart yet to apply myself to a reading lately causes my mind to wander around.  I downloaded some podcasts and went jogging/walking and told myself I would focus, listen and learn.  I do ok for a while, then my mind wanders.  I can rewind, that's the good part.  I am trying hard to focus and that includes focusing on good things.  You said you are 50.  The age of menopausal symptoms may be around you as well if you're a woman?  The hormones are everywhere.  I agree with diet control if you can.  For me it is exercise that always kept me from going over the edge.  I realize you are a doctor, of what?  I think maybe you should try some kind of brain teasers to get you focusing?  Maybe you need to do something completely different.  You may be doing the same things over and over and although you are intelligent, it is all runofthemill stuff with no challenge?

[bernie40]

Have you spoken to your doctor about this symptoms?  It could be that you need a different med as it may be the med that is impairing your concentration levels.  It sounds more like concentration than memory.  Also try taking omega 3 capsules as these are supposed to aid concentration.  I certainly notice a difference now that I take them daily.

Look at your diet, are you having too much caffeine, are you eating healthy foods?  All these things can make a difference.

Good luck