'I'm a neurologist – forgetting these two things could be warning sign you have Alzheimer's'

-Credit:Getty Images
-Credit:Getty Images


A neurologist has explained how forgetting two things could be an early warning sign that someone is suffering with Alzheimer's disease.

According to Dr Richard Restak, who has written over 20 books about the brain how it works, two specific types of forgetfulness could point to serious memory problems.

They are: forgetting how to play game we've often played or not remembering what has already happened in the game; and not being sure how we arrived at a place or location.

He explained that some memory issues are probably nothing to worry about, but some could be hinting at a deeper health issue.

ADVERTISEMENT

Dr Restak said: "Suppose you drive to a shopping centre to buy a particular item and go in to purchase it. When you come out, you don't remember where you parked your car.

Two types of forgetfulness could hint at Alzheimer's disease (stock) -Credit:Getty Images/iStockphoto
Two types of forgetfulness could hint at Alzheimer's disease (stock) -Credit:Getty Images/iStockphoto

READ MORE: Dr Federica Amati's 'superfood' to stop dementia and lower blood pressure 'we need in our bodies'

READ MORE: Eating common food increases dementia risk by 13 percent - what you need to know

"I don;t think that's something to worry about. People complain about that all the time."

Dr. Restak, who is a professor of clinical neurology at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, says most seemingly concerning memory lapses are actually nothing to worry about.

He has thoroughly analysed the differences between normal memory lapses and serious forgetfulness which should spark people into action.

ADVERTISEMENT

Dr Restak said that he completes a memory challenge every morning by writing down 10 words before leaving home to walk his dog.

He then recites this from memory when he returns. The neurologist explains that this is just one example of the many options available to keep your brain healthy.