Whether your brain injury results from an accident, assault or any other incident, you might experience some cognitive impairments in the weeks and months that follow. Many people experience memory challenges afterward as well.
You might wonder how common memory loss is following a brain injury. If so, there are a few things you should understand.
Brain injuries and memory loss
Memory problems are very common following a moderate to severe brain injury. Any brain injury can potentially damage the parts of your brain that handle memory and learning. This can pose challenges for both recall and memory formation.
Prospective memory loss
When a brain injury affects prospective memory, you might struggle to remember plans you made or your intentions to do something. You might forget appointments or fail to follow through on a promise to call someone.
Post-traumatic amnesia
One common memory challenge following a brain injury is recall of the injury and accident itself. Known as post-traumatic amnesia, this can last anywhere from a few brief moments to months following the accident.
Compensation for memory challenges
When memory loss results from a brain injury, the key is to compensate for those struggles to ease stress and anxiety. Minimize distractions, create reminders and establish to-do lists.
In the United States, an estimated 1.7 million people suffer from brain injuries. Understanding the effects of a brain injury on memory and recall helps empower people to better support loved ones who struggle with these challenges. Ongoing support helps to minimize emotional strain so that patients can focus on recovery.
