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Does electroconvulsive therapy cause permanent memory loss?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am going in for ECT to help with thoughts of dying etc. What is the success rate of ECT? Can it erase memory? What is the percentage of memory loss? Currently I am taking Ziprasidone medicine. Please help.

Answered by Dr. Vishal Anilkumar Gandhi

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Electroconvulsive therapy is one of the best treatments for actively suicidal patients. It gives dramatic improvement to dying thoughts. As per my personal experience, it has more than 90 percent success rates in patients with suicidal thoughts. There will be a memory issue but it is just temporary, it is not long-term. It does not affect your long time memory or work function. I suggest taking electroconvulsive therapy, it is the safest, best, and has the least side effects. I hope that you get your answer. Please let me know if you want some help. Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have heard it can cause memory loss. I am hoping that it does not. Is there a way in which it can?

Answered by Dr. Vishal Anilkumar Gandhi

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, it causes memory loss but it is just temporary. It does not cause permanent memory loss. You do not need to worry about it. I recommend going for electroconvulsive therapy.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Is the success rate of ECT for suicidal patients is 90 percent? I have been diagnosed with schizophrenia. Can this help with this too?

Answered by Dr. Vishal Anilkumar Gandhi

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, it will surely help you with schizophrenia. It gives immediate relief to auditory hallucinations, delusions, and death wishes.

Thank you.

Answered byDr. Vishal Anilkumar Gandhi

Medically reviewed byDr. Lekshmipriya. B

Published At July 9, 2022
Reviewed AtSeptember 11, 2023

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Vishal Anilkumar Gandhi
Dr. Vishal Anilkumar Gandhi

Psychiatry

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