Overview

Transient global amnesia (TGA) is a rare type of amnesia that causes sudden memory loss. When this happens you cannot remember events from your recent past or make new memories. You may also not know where you are, why you are there, or what the date is. You may ask the same question many times. Unlike other types of amnesia, you do know who you are and you can recognize people that you know. An episode usually does not last more than 6 hours and it rarely happens again.

What causes TGA is not fully known. But, in some cases, an intense workout, sex, or stress may cause an episode. People who get migraines are more likely to have TGA.

Your doctor probably did an exam and ran some tests to rule out certain health problems that can also cause sudden memory loss, such as a stroke, brain tumour, seizure, head injury, or an infection. If your doctor did not find any of these things to be the cause of your memory loss, you will not need treatment and you can go back to your usual activities. Although you may never be able to remember what happened right before or during the episode, the rest of your memory should come back.

TGA does not increase the chance that you will have a stroke or seizures in the future.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• There is no treatment for TGA. Expect your symptoms to go away with time.
• Take good care of yourself. Eat a healthy diet. Get plenty of rest. Limit how much alcohol you drink. Do not smoke. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
• Find healthy ways to deal with stress. Regular exercise is a good way to manage stress.
• Talk to your doctor if you have questions about TGA.