Definition of Amnesia
Amnesia or memory loss is a term used when a person cannot remember certain information, experiences, or events. This condition can occur suddenly or get worse slowly.
Lost memories can be things that happened recently or memories that are long gone. People with amnesia may also have difficulty learning new information or forming new memories.
Types of Amnesia
Amnesia can be categorized into two main types. This division is based on the type of memory of the person experiencing the disorder. The two types of amnesia are:
- Anterograde amnesia: occurs when the sufferer has difficulty remembering things that happened after a certain period or date. People with amnesia can only remember things for a short period of time.
- Retrograde amnesia: which is a type of amnesia in which the sufferer cannot remember past information before a certain period or date. For example, memory loss before the date of major surgery or having an accident.
As we age, our ability to remember generally declines. However, amnesia can also be a symptom of a more serious illness or health problem. You're better off seeing a doctor if you experience memory loss that worries you, such as memory loss that occurs for no apparent reason.
Causes of Amnesia
Amnesia can be caused by a variety of conditions, especially those that affect brain performance. Some of these include:
- Injuries to the head, for example from an accident.
- strokes.
- Encephalitis or inflammation of the brain.
- Certain diseases or conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease and brain tumors.
- Alcohol dependence for the long term.
- Psychological trauma, for example in victims of sexual crimes.
Amnesia Diagnosis
Appropriate diagnostic steps are needed in the diagnosis of amnesia. This is done to determine the underlying cause as well as the type of amnesia you are experiencing.
Just like any other disease, the initial stage of diagnosing amnesia starts with the doctor asking for detailed symptoms along with your and your family's medical history. Subsequent examinations in the form of blood tests, CT scans or MRIs may also be recommended to rule out the possibility of other diseases.
Amnesia Treatment
The main step in treating amnesia is therapy, for example occupational therapy and cognitive therapy. In therapy, people with amnesia will learn methods to help their memory. For example, learn strategies and techniques for organizing information so that it is easy to remember.
You can also apply simple steps to help with your daily activities. Some strategies that may be useful include:
Always bring a writing utensil so you can immediately record all the information you get.
Always put things that are needed everyday in the same place, for example house keys.
Take advantage of advances in technology, for example using the alarm feature on your phone to remind you of certain activities.
Amnesia and Dementia
Dementia is a collection of symptoms associated with decreased brain performance. Memory loss is one of the symptoms of dementia. However, these two conditions are not the same. Experiencing memory loss does not necessarily mean you automatically have dementia.
Video Credit: Lecturio Medical Education video - youtube -