My Dad was diagnosed with AD when he was around 55-57, we think he had it even earlier but it wasn't diagnosed. I am 31 and I have noticed how my short term memory is almost non existent. I could be at work and be told to do something, I am on my way to do the task, and forget what I was supposed to do. I struggle to find words and have a discussion with people.  It hasn't been this bad for me before, but I feel it is getting worse. It could be I have neurofibermotosis, and it could be because of that. But as I said before, even that it hasn't been an issue.  

      So I am wondering if it could be AD, or something else. I haven't been to the doctors as of yet.

Welcome, soupafi.  Memory loss and cognitive problems can be caused by many conditions and medications.  This is why we urge all patients to be evaluated by doctors for medical conditions.  In your case, neurofibromatosis can be associated with memory loss.  I did a brief search for "neurofibromatosis+memory loss" and came up with good information.  

Of course, it could be possible for a person with neurofibromatosis to also develop Alzheimer's disease. It is best for a neurologist who is experienced in diagnosing the dementias to evaluate you and come to a determination of what is causing your memory loss.  This would involve a variety of laboratory tests, neurocognitive testing, and imaging studies.

Are you currently being followed by a neurologist?  You might begin your evaluation by discussing your concerns with this doctor.  If you are not satisfied with the response, you can search for a neurologist who is a specialist in the dementia diseases.

In the meantime, keep a record of your symptoms.  Know that stress and anxiety will worsen memory loss.  There are medications that cause memory loss, both prescription meds and over the counter meds.  You can search www.rxlist.com for memory loss side effects for the medications you are taking.

Please keep us updated on how you are doing and the results of your medical consultations.

Iris L.

soupafi -

Iris gave you good advice and reason to be evaluated. If you have health insurance it will give you peace of mind to know.

Getting a diagnosis is not usually smooth sailing, many people get tested and then a year later another test. No matter the diagnosis doing what are called Best practices can't hurt!

enough sleep

cut back on stress inducing stuff

Mediterranean Diet

Exercise (esp activities you enjoy)

Stay in touch here, let us know how you are doing. You are so young. Looking back I can see I had odd symptoms 20 years ago or more (from age 3 and I was not diagnosed with ALZ until I was 60. 

On the chance it is something fixable, I would go for it.

Great advice.  Keep a record of things you notice. Can you try cutting down on stress.  Due for a physical?Ask about blood tests for B-12 and D3 .  If you are still concerned make an appointment at a place which routinely does dementia diagnostic tests.  This is usually a large University or Medical Sco with a Dementia Department 

Do stay in touch