Transient Global Amnesia
Description
Transient global amnesia is a sudden, temporary loss of memory that is not caused by other disorders such as infection, stroke, seizure or head injury. Patients are unable to remember any recent events including what happened a day, week or up to a year ago. Older memories remain intact and they can still remember who they are and recognize their family members. This disorder occurs more frequently in patients over 50.
Symptoms
Sudden loss of recent memories. Patients cannot remember what they have just done or where they have come from. Memories are far back as a year can be affected. Older memories are intact and patients recognize their family members and patients can follow simple commands. There is no paralysis or other loss of muscle function.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis is confirmed by excluding more serious conditions such as stroke, seizure or head injury.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- EKG
- CT Scan
- MRI
- EEG
Treatment
No treatment is needed for transient global amnesia besides reassurance. It resolves on its own and does not cause any long term damage.
Related Videos
Research
News
One day in 1999 Duane Graveline, then a 68-year-old...
Share Your Experience
Do you have experience with this disease? Do you or someone
you know suffer from Transient global amnesia?
Please share you experience with other members of the iTriage community.