Amnesia refers to the loss of memories, such as facts, information and experiences.
During amnesia the patient loses memory, forgets the facts. A person knows, realizes who he is, though has difficulty remembering new information.
Amnesia can be caused by damage to areas of the brain that are vital for memory processing. Unlike a temporary episode of memory loss (transient global amnesia), amnesia can be permanent.
Causes
Any disease or injury that affects the brain can interfere with memory.
Amnesia can result from damage to brain structures that form the limbic system, which controls your emotions and memories.
Amnesia caused by brain injury or damage is known as neurological amnesia.
Possible causes of neurological amnesia include:
- Stroke
- Brain inflammation (encephalitis).
- Lack of adequate oxygen in the brain
- Long-term alcohol abuse leading to thiamin (vitamin B-1) deficiency
- Tumors in areas of the brain that control memory
- Degenerative brain diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia
- Seizures
- Certain medications
Head injuries that cause a concussion, whether from a car accident or sports, can lead to confusion and problems remembering new information. This is especially common in the early stages of recovery.
Mild head injuries typically do not cause lasting amnesia, but more-severe head injuries may cause permanent amnesia.
Another rare type of amnesia, called dissociative (psychogenic) amnesia, stems from emotional shock or trauma, such as being the victim of a violent crime. In this disorder, a person may lose personal memories and autobiographical information, but usually only briefly.
Risk factors
- Brain surgery
- Head injury or trauma
- Stroke
- Alcohol abuse
- Seizures
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/amnesia/symptoms-causes/syc-20353360
