Amnezja

Amnezja refers to a condition characterized by the partial or complete loss of memory. It can result from various causes, including brain injury, neurological disorders, psychological trauma, or certain medical treatments. Memory loss can affect different aspects of personal experience, such as episodic (events and experiences), semantic (facts and general knowledge), procedural (skills and habits), or working memory (short-term recall). The severity and type of amnesia can vary widely among individuals.

Amnesia is often classified into two primary categories: retrograde and anterograde. Retrograde amnesia involves the inability to recall events or information from one’s past, while anterograde amnesia impairs the ability to form new memories after the onset of the condition. Some cases may also exhibit a combination of both, known as dissociative amnesia, typically linked to severe psychological stress or trauma. Another form, global amnesia, results in both retrograde and anterograde memory loss, often due to severe brain damage.

Common causes of amnesia include traumatic brain injuries, such as those from accidents or concussions, neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s or dementia, and strokes that disrupt brain regions responsible for memory. Certain medications, alcohol abuse, and vitamin deficiencies (such as thiamine deficiency in Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome) can also contribute. In rare cases, amnesia may be induced intentionally, such as in surgical procedures like hippocampal lesions for epilepsy treatment.

Diagnosis typically involves neurological examinations, cognitive assessments, and imaging techniques like MRI or CT scans to identify structural abnormalities. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include rehabilitation therapies, medication, or addressing underlying health conditions. In some cases, memory aids or compensatory strategies can help individuals manage daily functioning despite memory impairments. Support from mental health professionals is often recommended for those experiencing psychological causes of amnesia.