Amnesia is a word that comes from ancient Greek and means “forgetfulness,” in which a person has serious memory loss. Amnesia is a memory loss condition that can happen when a person may have trouble remembering new information, forming new memories and past events, but they know who they are. These conditions come up when there is damage to areas of the brain that are vital for memory processing. In some individuals, there is a temporary episode of memory loss called transient global amnesia; however, defect can be permanent in some cases. So, one should seek help to enhance memory and get support from people with amnesia by involving their families in it for additional support. In this article, we’ll look at the main causes of amnesia.
How is Amnesia Caused?
Amnesia is caused by damage to the area of the brain responsible for memory processing and control of emotions and memories. The thalamus is the body’s information relay system that is found deep within the center of the brain and regulates numerous motor and sensory impulses to the cerebral cortex.
Amnesia can happen for many reasons, and the causes for it fall broadly into two main categories: neurological and psychological causes.
Neurological causes
Neurological cause of amnesia involves damage to the brain or disruptions in brain activity that occur in the following
- Alcohol intoxication leads to too little vitamin B-1, known as thiamin, in the body, causing Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
- Alzheimer’s disease involves the degeneration of nerve tissues.
- Brain aneurysms
- Brain tumors
- Cerebral hypoxia: It may happen as a result of a heart attack or respiratory distress where the level of carbon monoxide increases in the blood
- Drugs and medications like benzodiazepines and certain sedatives can also cause neurological disorders.
- In case of epilepsy and seizures
- In case of accidental head injuries like concussions or traumatic brain injuries that can lead to confusion, problems remembering new information and even permanent amnesia
- Some viruses can also cause brain-related disorders, like the herpes simplex virus.
- The neurological disorder can cause degenerative brain diseases like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis.
- Stroke
- In cases of carbon monoxide poisoning or heavy metal poisoning.
Psychological causes of amnesia
Memory loss can also happen in connection with mental health issues that involve a rare type of amnesia called dissociative amnesia which happens due to emotional shock or trauma by either being the victim of a violent crime or experiencing other trauma. So, as a result of this disorder, people may lose personal memories and have difficulty storing new information about their lives.
Risk factors
Other risk factors that increase the cause of amnesia are brain surgery, head injury, alcohol toxicity and seizures.
Conclusion
A person living with amnesia can experience significant effects on their physical, emotional, and mental health as they face memory loss challenges. Seeking help from a healthcare provider is essential when experiencing issues with memory and thinking abilities. A healthcare team will regularly monitor your condition, guide your family on how to manage its impact on daily life, and recommend necessary treatments or therapies. Health insurance can be incredibly beneficial in covering the costs of doctor visits, diagnostic tests, treatments, and ongoing care. It ensures access to quality medical support without financial strain, allowing individuals and their families to focus on managing the condition effectively.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.