Transient global amnesia
Transient global amnesia is a sudden, temporary episode of memory loss that is not caused by a common neurological disorder, such as a heart attack or stroke.
During an episode of transient global amnesia, you forget the events of your immediate past, leaving you with no memory of where you are or how you got there. You may also not remember what is happening in the present You may ask the same question multiple times because you don't remember the answers You may also not remember events that happened days, weeks, or months ago
In transient global amnesia, you remember who you are and recognize people close to you, but the memory loss is still troubling.
Fortunately, transient global amnesia is rare, harmless, and unlikely to recur. The episodes are short and the memory remains intact afterwards
The cause of transient global amnesia is unknown There appears to be a link between transient global amnesia and migraines, although the causes of both conditions are not fully understood.
Conditions after which transient global amnesia may develop:
- Sudden contact with cold or hot water
- Vigorous physical activity
- Sexual intercourse
- Medical procedures, such as angiography and endoscopy
- Head
Transient global amnesia is diagnosed by its main symptom, which is difficulty remembering new information and recalling past events. After confirming the symptom, it is important to rule out other causes of amnesia
Symptoms needed for diagnosis
A doctor may base the diagnosis of transient global amnesia on the following signs and symptoms:
- Sudden memory loss
- Recognition of self in the background of memory loss
- Normal
When to see a doctor
Get medical help immediately if you see someone with signs of amnesia If the person is unable to call an ambulance himself, call yourself
Transient global amnesia is not a dangerous condition, although at first glance it is impossible to distinguish it from other life-threatening conditions that cause sudden memory loss. Sudden memory loss is more likely to indicate stroke or heart failure than transient global amnesia. A medical examination is the only way to determine the cause of memory loss
