As opposed to so many movies that we have seen, Amnesia is no laughing matter. A person suffering from Amnesia is traumatized by the loss of his entire life of memories. It is a serious disorder and care must betaken not to disturb the patient any further as most of them have suicidal tendencies. It normally steals an individual of emotional attachments and memories; thus leaving the person unaware of any relationship with family or friends.

While in some cases the disorder is temporary in most cases it lasts a lifetime.

What causes Amnesia?

A severe blow to the head or a head injury during an accident is the most common cause of Amnesia. Lack of oxygen to the brain during a heart attack or during an asthma attack can cause the condition as well. Epileptic seizures, long term alcohol abuse and drug abuse can lead to the disorder as well.

Treatments

Most patients are required to work with Occupational Therapists to work on new memories and replace lost ones. Though spending time with loved ones and family will be the best treatment. If a member of your family is suffering from Amnesia; then the best thing you can do is take him down memory lane. Show the person old pictures and places that have memories attached to them. Talk about happy times that you have shared like parties, holidays and birthdays. Beware not to sound too anxious to make the person remember everything he has forgotten as it will lead to frustration. Take everyday with caution. It will take time for the person to recover lost memories.

There are no medications available for the cure of this disorder.

Caution: Hitting the person on the head or causing the symptoms that led to the memory loss will not regain lost memories but can cause longer lasting damage.