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Major types of amnesia professional#

Major types of amnesia professional#

People with more-severe forms of amnesia may require direct assistance from family, friends or professional caregivers. Living with amnesia can be frustrating for those with memory loss and for their family and friends too. But the complexity of the brain processes involved makes it unlikely that a single medicine will be able to resolve memory problems. Research may one day lead to new treatments for memory disorders. If Alzheimer's disease is the cause of the amnesia, treatment with medicines called cholinesterase inhibitors can help with symptoms. Treatment includes replacing thiamin in the body, providing proper nutrition and not drinking alcohol. But most people won't recover all of their lost memory. If Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is the cause of the amnesia, treatment can help prevent further damage. No medicines are currently available for treating most types of amnesia.

Low-tech memory aids include notebooks, wall calendars, pill minders, and photographs of people and places. For example, smartphones can be programmed to remind them about important events or to take medicines. With some training and practice, even people with severe amnesia can use electronic organizers to help with day-to-day tasks. Many people with amnesia find it helpful to use smart technology, such as a smartphone or a hand-held tablet. Memory training also may include strategies for organizing information so that it's easier to remember and for better understanding when talking to others. Or you may use intact memories as a basis for taking in new information. You may work with an occupational therapist to learn new information and replace what was lost. It's also important to address underlying diseases causing the amnesia. Treatment for amnesia focuses on strategies to help make up for the memory problem.

An electroencephalogram (EEG) to check for the presence of seizure activity.

Blood tests to check for infection, nutritional deficiencies or other issues.

Imaging tests - including an MRI and CT scan - to check for brain damage or changes such as shrinkage.

Your health care provider also may order: The memory evaluation can help determine the extent of memory loss and provide insights about what kind of help you may need. You may be asked to repeat a list of words. You'll be asked about your knowledge of general information - such as the name of the current president - as well as personal information and past events. The exam typically includes tests related to thinking, judgment, and recent and long-term memory. The physical exam may include a neurological exam to check reflexes, sensory function and balance.

History of seizures, headaches, depression or cancer.Other symptoms such as confusion, language problems, personality changes or not being able to perform self care.Family history, especially of neurological disease.Factors that triggered memory problems, such as a head injury, stroke or surgery.When the memory problems started and how they progressed.The type of memory loss and whether it's recent or long term.Your health care provider may ask you several questions to help understand the memory loss.