Amnesia

You've probably seen the startling memory loss of amnesia portrayed on television. A mysterious stranger shows up with no memories of his past, his identity or even his name. The diagnosis is clear: amnesia! Just one more bonk on the head and it will come back to him soon.

In actuality, amnesia is unlikely to appear (let alone disapper) like on T.V., but may share some of its symptoms. Read on to learn about the various types of amnesia and its real-life treatments.

Definition of Amnesia

There are two distinct types of amnesia, each displaying specific symptoms.the loss of long-term memory, or the loss of the ability to form new long-term memories or memorize things. People suffering from Anterograde Amnesia may find themselves unable to remember facts or people's names just a few minutes after hearing them because the memories do not successfully transfer from their conscious short-term memory into permanent long-term memory.

Transient global amnesia usually affects patients between the ages of 40 and 80. Patients with this condition are often described – wrongly – as being confused. It presents classically with an abrupt onset of severe anterograde amnesia. It is usually accompanied by repetitive questioning. The patient does not have any focal neurological symptoms. Patients remain alert, attentive, and cognition is not impaired. However, they are disoriented to time and place. Attacks usually last for 1–8 h but should be less than 24 h.