[45M] Experiencing memory loss and unusual symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

• Transient Global Amnesia: This is a sudden, temporary episode of memory loss that can't be attributed to a more common neurological condition, such as epilepsy or stroke. During an episode of transient global amnesia, your recall of recent events simply vanishes, so you can't remember where you are or how you got there.

  • There's no specific treatment for transient global amnesia, and it's usually a one-time occurrence. However, it's important to undergo a medical evaluation to rule out other possible conditions.

• Sleep Disorders: Conditions like sleepwalking or night terrors can cause people to wake up in strange places without remembering how they got there. These conditions are often linked to stress or poor sleep hygiene.

  • Treatment usually involves improving sleep hygiene and managing stress. In severe cases, medication may be prescribed.

• Dissociative Disorders: These are mental health conditions that involve disruptions or breakdowns of memory, awareness, identity, or perception. People with dissociative disorders use dissociation, a defense mechanism, pathologically and involuntarily.

  • Treatment for dissociative disorders often involves psychotherapy, cognitive therapy, and medication.

• Alcohol or Drug Use: Excessive alcohol or drug use can cause blackouts, which are periods of time that a person can't recall later, despite appearing awake and functional during the blackout.

  • Treatment involves reducing or eliminating alcohol or drug use, often with the help of a support group or treatment program.

What you can do

It's important to seek medical attention to determine the cause of your symptoms. Your doctor may want to perform tests to rule out more serious conditions. In the meantime, you can:

1. Keep a journal of your symptoms, including when they occur, how long they last, and any possible triggers.
2. Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs, which can worsen memory problems.
3. Make sure you're getting enough sleep and managing stress, as both can affect memory.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your memory loss is accompanied by other neurological symptoms, such as difficulty speaking, numbness or weakness, or loss of vision.
• You have a history of head injury.
• Your memory loss is worsening or becoming more frequent.

Remember, I'm an AI and can't replace a visit to a healthcare professional. Please consult with a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment.