What is anterograde amnesia?

On Behalf of | Feb 23, 2018 | Catastrophic Injuries

Amnesia is a common plot device used by Hollywood to make movies and television shows more interesting. The idea of someone losing their memory can be romantic when put into a script, such as was done in the movie 50 First Dates. The type of amnesia in that storyline was anterograde amnesia. 

Anterograde amnesia, according to Healthline, is when you are unable to make new memories. It can also include a symptom called retroactive interference. This is when you can remember new information but that information erases old information. 

This type of amnesia is caused by serious brain injuries. It can also occur due to a brain tumor or a deficiency in Vitamin B1. Anterograde amnesia may also be a result of brain surgery or electroconvulsive therapy or a result of seizures or a stroke. What happens is the memory-making part of the brain is somehow damaged.

The condition can be temporary, but in some cases, it may be permanent. It is diagnosed with an MRI or CT scan, and usually happens after you have already experienced symptoms of amnesia in general. 

Unfortunately, there is no cure for this condition. Treatment is based solely on helping you to adjust to the changes in your brain and learn how to live with this condition. You may receive treatment that seeks to improve your quality of life. This information is for education and is not legal advice. 

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