Localised memory areas in certain structures of the brain only.
Widespread distribution of memories, with certain structures (such as the hippocampus) playing important roles.Widespread distribution of memories across the outermost layer of the brain (cortex).Current and often conflicting theories include: The way the brain codes and stores information remains a mystery. Transient ischaemic attack (a 'mini stroke').
Certain drugs, such as barbiturates or heroin.Memory loss can be caused by a wide range of conditions, including: Once the person recovers, they typically have no memory of their amnesia episode.Inability to recognise familiar faces or places.The symptoms of amnesia depend on the cause, but generally include: It is thought that the memory processes of the brain take time to develop. Infantile amnesia, or the inability to remember anything at all from the first few months or years of life, is universal. In many mild cases, such as those caused by concussion, the person can't recall the blow to the head or their recovery time, but the rest of their memory is intact. Anterograde amnesia means that the person can't learn anything new, while retrograde amnesia means the person forgets events from their past. Causes include head and brain injuries, certain drugs, alcohol, traumatic events, or conditions such as Alzheimer's disease. The loss can be temporary or permanent, but 'amnesia' usually refers to the temporary variety. Louis), author, Origins of NeuroscienceĪn informative, accessible and engaging book for anyone who has even the slightest interest in how the brain works, but doesn’t know where to begin.Amnesia is a general term that describes memory loss. Stanley Finger, PhD, Professor Emeritus of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Washington University (St. Reading like a collection of detective stories, Your Brain, Explained combines classic cases in the history of neurology with findings stemming from the latest techniques used to probe the brain’s secrets. Moheb Costandi, author, Neuroplasticity and 50 Human Brain Ideas You Really Need to Know Frank Amthor, PhD, Professor of Psychology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, author, Neuroscience for Dummiesĭingman weaves classic studies with modern research into easily digestible sections, to provide an excellent primer on the rapidly advancing field of neuroscience. a highly readable and accessible introduction to the operation of the brain and current issues in neuroscience.