When memory takes a timeout: Understanding transient global amnesia
Imagine you’re chatting with your spouse over breakfast when they pause mid-conversation, look a little puzzled and ask a question they should already know the answer to—something simple, like “Why is the orange juice sitting here?” You answer, thinking it’s just a moment of distraction. But a few minutes later, they ask again. Then again. They seem calm but clearly confused, unable to remember that you just retrieved the juice from the fridge.
It’s not dramatic, but it’s enough to make you wonder: Is something wrong?
It’s not a prank, and it’s not early-onset dementia, but it can be quite frightening. It could be transient global amnesia—a strange, short-lived and usually harmless brain blip that causes sudden, temporary memory loss.
So, what exactly is TGA?
Transient global amnesia (TGA) is a sudden episode of memory loss that can't be attributed to a more common neurological condition like epilepsy or stroke. During an episode, a person is alert, able to speak and understand language, but they can’t form new memories or recall recent events. It’s like hitting the pause button on your brain’s recording function.
The good news? It’s rare, typically harmless and resolves on its own—usually within 24 hours.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Sudden onset of memory less, especially around recent events
- Repetitive questioning
- Confusion about time, place or situation
Despite the memory issues, the person typically retains their identity, stays alert and can perform complex tasks like using a phone or making coffee. Importantly, people experiencing TGA do not lose consciousness, have trouble recognizing loved ones or display language difficulties like slurred speech—those are signs of other serious issues, like a stroke, and require immediate medical attention. They’re also not disoriented in the way someone with a stroke or head injury might be, which is part of what makes TGA so puzzling to witness.
What causes it?
Doctors don’t fully understand the cause of TGA. Some common triggers include physical or emotional stress, sudden immersion in cold or hot water, strenuous activity or sexual activity. It could also be related to migraines.
TGA is more common in people over 50, and it rarely happens more than once in a lifetime.
What should you do if someone has symptoms?
“When someone suddenly can't remember recent events or keeps repeating the same question, it can be scary—but the first step is staying calm,” says SIU Medicine neurologist Dr. Jeremy Kulacz. “Make sure the person is safe, rule out obvious dangers like stroke, and get them evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible.”
A health care provider will likely perform a physical exam, neurological exams, imaging and possibly lab tests to rule out other causes. Once they confirm TGA, you’ll mostly just need to wait it out—together.
How to survive the repeat button
Reassure your loved one. Be patient. Then be patient again.
And maybe have a little fun with it—as long as your provider says it’s safe. Some create a “Frequently Asked Questions” handout. Others record a video on their phone that answers the usual suspects: What day is it? Where are we? Did I have coffee?
Pro tip: Don’t answer the same question with a different answer just to see what happens. They won’t remember it, and you’ll confuse yourself.
Long-term outcomes and what to expect
Thankfully, TGA has an excellent prognosis. Most people fully recover with no lingering effects once the episode resolves. There’s no evidence that it’s a sign of future stroke or permanent brain damage.
And while it’s not considered a precursor to dementia or other chronic conditions, it can be unsettling enough to spark follow-up conversations about brain health.
“Even though TGA is benign, it’s an important opportunity to check in on your overall neurological wellness,” Dr. Kulacz adds. “Episodes like these can serve as a wake-up call to manage stress, get regular health checkups and take brain health seriously.”
