Not to mention, abusing substances can lead to a loss of consciousness, overdose or death.Ī lack of oxygen to the brain is called brain hypoxia. If your body suffers a problem such as a heart attack, stroke, respiratory distress or carbon monoxide poisoning, your brain is not getting the oxygen it needs.Ībusing substances, illegal or prescribed, can lead to respiratory suppression and a lack of oxygen reaching the brain. The brain needs oxygen to function properly. You can address brain inflammation with antiviral drugs, anticonvulsants, and supportive care. If you experience confusion, hallucinations, loss of sensation, or seizures, seek immediate medical attention. While severe cases may be life-threatening, mild cases may cause flu-like symptoms. Brain inflammationīrain inflammation is caused by bacterial or viral infection and may be the result of an immune system disorder. These are just a few of the ways the limbic system in the brain can be damaged and lead to amnesia. Incidents that can cause amnesia include brain inflammation, lack of oxygen to the brain, substance abuse, tumors and emotional traumas. Global amnesia tends to be more temporary and can happen because of extreme emotional or physical distress.
Anterograde amnesia is the inability to create new memories. Retrograde amnesia is when you cannot remember anything before the time of the event that caused you to lose your memory. Under the umbrella are three types of amnesia: retrograde, anterograde and global. There are many reasons for amnesia, including stress, a trauma to the brain and psychological disorders.Īmnesia is like a big umbrella. What is Amnesia?Īmnesia is a form of memory loss that can be temporary or permanent. And that is just in LA County.īefore we discuss causes, it is important to establish a good definition of amnesia. That means around 300,000 people suffering from a memory loss disorder. Researchers report this number is expected to double in the next decade. Amnesia is one of the most well-known symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia. You may be experiencing amnesia depending on the severity of your symptoms.Īccording to public health data in Los Angeles County, California, there are close to 150,000 residents suffering from Alzheimer’s.
Are you experiencing loss of sensation, confusion, or hallucinations?