Overview
Stroke must be ruled out.
Memory loss lasts a few hours, then goes away.
The person knows who they are but can't form new memories.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Sudden memory loss, repeating questions
- Memory problems
Less common
- Repeating questions
Look up a symptom: Memory problems · New confusion or not acting like themselves
When to get medical care
Call 911Sudden face drooping, arm weakness, trouble speaking, or vision loss: call 911. Or any sudden memory loss: get checked.
Get care todayNew or worse symptoms, or symptoms with fever.
See a doctor soonSymptoms that last or keep coming back.
Causes
Unknown.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Ages 50 to 70
Diagnosis
A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.
The exam
A physical exam.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- MRI:
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.
Self-care
- Stay with the person
Which doctor treats this
- Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
- They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).
Back to school, work, or sports
- Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Adults 50 to 70: Most common.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
- Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
- Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
- Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.
For caregivers
- Go to visits when you can and take notes.
- Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
- Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
- Learn CPR. Many hospitals and the Red Cross offer classes.
- Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.
Outlook
Full recovery is typical.
It rarely comes back.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
What to bring
- A list of your medicines and supplements
- Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse
Questions to ask
- What's causing this?
- What treatment do you recommend?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Transient global amnesia
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.