Drug use, traumatic brain injuries, stroke, illness, and surgery are a few possible causes.
While it is sometimes temporary, anterograde memory loss can also be permanent.
What Is Anterograde Memory?
Verywell / Catherine Song
Unfortunately, the true nature of the condition can be severely debilitating.
Take the character Leonard Shelby in the movie “Memento,” for instance.
First, we can divide memory into declarative or non-declarative.
Brain Areas Involved in Memory
There are several brain areas involved in anterograde amnesia.
H.M. was suffering from anterograde amnesia due to surgery conducted to cure his epilepsy.
How Long Can Anterograde Amnesia Last?
It is important to seek treatment if you are experiencing unexplained memory loss.
Your healthcare provider can determine the underlyingcause of your memory lossand suggest appropriate treatments.
Factors that can increase the risk of developing anterograde amnesia include:
How Is Anterograde Amnesia Diagnosed?
Treatments for anterograde amnesia are primarily aimed at managing the condition.
The following strategies are often used:
There is no FDA-approved medication treatment for amnesia.
But vitamin B1 (thiamine) supplements may be used in instances where there is a vitamin deficiency.
Managing anterograde amnesia requires the use of reminders.
Technology can be useful, but handwritten checklists and other tools can also help.
Outline daily tasks, including things such as shopping, money management, meal preparation, and appointments.
This list should be visible and accessible at any time.
Break down daily tasks into smaller steps and check off progress.
People with amnesia may lose track of time and spend hours on the same task.
This pop in of impairment can affect daily functioning, particularly if it is severe.
Having thesupport of family and friendsis critical and should be part of any treatment plan, if possible.
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