Suggestion:
You won't know when your cortisol levels are up, but most of us know when we are stressed and under pressure, whether it's caused by work, family, relationships or money. Make time for yourself to do what helps you to relax - exercise, a relaxing bath, yoga, or doing some gardening.
2. Problems sleeping
Suggestion:
Sleep problems are usually caused by lifestyle, rather than a sleep disorder. Establish a sleep routine, and avoid food and drink (especially alcohol) which help keep you awake or interrupt your sleep pattern.
Sleep apnoea mostly occurs in men, people who are overweight and who snore heavily.
3. Lacking vitamins
Suggestion:
Anaemia symptoms include tiredness, shortness of breath and dizziness. Nervous system symptoms include tingling in the hands and feet, muscle weakness, memory loss and confusion.
The good news is that it can be treated by your GP who will prescribe vitamin B12 injections. Good sources of vitamin B12 are red and white meat, eggs, fish, milk and cheese. Vegans can take supplements.
4. Thyroid disorder
Suggestion:
Look out for other symptoms such as cold hands and feet, constipation, pale, dry skin and unexplained weight gain. If these sound familiar, see your GP. They can perform a blood test, and prescribe hormone tablets if necessary.
5. Common drugs
Suggestion:
Draw up a list of any drugs you are taking, including any purchased from your pharmacy and take it to your GP. They can decide if any drug related memory problems are occurring and alter your medication if necessary.
6. Booze
Suggestion:
It's not rocket science is it? From a health point of view, binge drinking is definitely not recommended. Apart from memory loss, there is also the risk of alcohol poisoning and choking on your own vomit whilst asleep. Stick to the recommended limits which are:
* Men should drink no more than 3 to 4 units of alcohol per day
* Women should drink no more than 2 to 3 units of alcohol per day
7. Mini-stroke
Suggestion:
Symptoms of a stroke should be treated as a medical emergency, even if they disappear. Around one in five people who have mini-strokes go on to have a full blown stroke which can kill, or cause permanent disability. If you or anyone you know has 'a turn' involving memory loss, confusion, difficulty with or understanding speech, loss of balance, dizziness or trouble walking, then call 999.
