Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Amnesia - Memory Loss
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Diagnosis & Tests
How is the symptom diagnosed?
A person does not need to see a healthcare professional about simple memory loss that happens only once in a while. If memory loss is severe and progressive, Alzheimer's disease must be considered. Dementia can be diagnosed only if a healthcare provider is made aware of the problem.
The family should be able to discuss the range of the person's symptoms over time. Included should be how symptoms progressed and whether the symptoms improved or deteriorated. Also, the family should report how suddenly or gradually symptoms came on. The healthcare provider should also know all medications that the individual is taking. This includes over-the-counter products, herbal remedies, and all prescription medications.
Combinations of drugs may impair memory at times. The healthcare provider will look for other medical conditions that may contribute to the symptoms.
To determine if other medical conditions are contributing to the symptoms, tests may be done. Tests may include: