Memory Loss and Seizure Disorders

Tracey - posted on 01/11/2010 ( 1 mom has responded )

Living with a seizure disorder can sometimes pose some added challenges to our everyday living. And whether you are looking after someone with this disorder or are the one who is living with it, sometimes dealing with a memory loss can become one of these many challenges.

A large number of individuals affected by a seizure disorder will likely experience some memory loss. Memory loss can sometimes be a brutal side effect from both the seizures themselves and the anti-epileptic medications. A variety of factors can affect permanent or long term memory loss. Some of the factors will depend on things like the severity of one’s seizures, the number of seizures one is continually experiencing, the amount or type of medication being taken, and age when seizures began.

Repeated severe seizures can damage the underlying brain tissue. Therefore, many individuals who suffer from uncontrolled Epilepsy show cognitive deficits, particularly memory deficits due to damage to the medial temporal lobe. And those who suffer over time will more than likely notice it. Whether it’s short-term or long-term, those memories just seem to ‘fall out of the brain’. This often causes one to become frustrated and in some cases, depression can set in.

So, how do you stay sharp and help your memory to work better? First, you must never leave home without a small journal or notebook to record bits ’n’pieces of everyday. Then be sure to keep track of names of people and places, phone calls, bills due, tasks performed; to-do lists, accomplishments at work/school/home. Track your favorite things; literally jot down point form notes on everything. This memory-push, can be helpful, if you maintain it. And it will take some effort, but if you struggle to remember things, this will take less effort and be less of a burden over the long haul!


By Tracey Alderson
Administrator, Epilepsy Awareness 2009

** The degree of memory loss experienced is on an individual basis. And the notes herein are only meant to explain that some people with seizure disorders can and do experience some memory loss due to their disorder.