Epilepsy and Memory

See our downloadable guide explaining why people with epilepsy can have memory problems, and some ideas for improving memory.

This resource contains more information about the following topics:

Memory and Memory Problems – This section covers the role of the short-term and long-term memory, and other types of memory such as visual, verbal, procedural, semantic and episodic memory.

Memory and Epilepsy – People with Epilepsy often have memory issues for many different reasons, including:

Seizures – Memory is often impaired during seizures, as patients often report a complete loss of memory during the event. However, memory can also be impaired before seizures; changes in the brain before a seizure can mean that information is not processed well enough to pass into the long-term memory.

Epilepsy Medication – Side effects such as a loss in concentration and drowsiness can affect remembering, however if the drugs stop seizures, memory should be overall improved.

Mood – Research shows that people with epilepsy are more likely to be depressed and anxious, which can cause memory impairment and a lack of focus.

Lack of Sleep – If patients of epilepsy do not get sufficient sleep, seizures are much more likely to occur, therefore impairing memory more often. Sleep also promotes improvements in memory.

Surgery – Some patients with epilepsy will choose to have surgery to try to stop seizures, however this can cause memory impairment.

Improving Memory – Using the recommendations below, memory can still be improved for epilepsy patients:

Focus on one thing at a time – if focus is not given to one task specifically, it is likely that you will forget about that task, and instead start to think about something else.

Record information – If you find yourself struggling to remember information such as events and dates, keep a calendar or a diary.

Staying active – Keeping the mind active with activities such as crosswords or even physical exercise can be helpful to improve memory and cognition.