Bilateral ECT - Long Term Side Effects?

Hey gang,

I'm type 1 Bipolar and have been on every med in the book. Several years ago I underwent ECT (about 20 in the course of two months). I was assured that any memory impairment would be short term and my memory would recover.

Unfortunately, even years later, I am experiencing significant cognitive impairment. I can't remember the names of people I've known for years, things we did together, the context in which I know them (even family members). I have HUGE gaps in my long term memory - just chunks of time (months to years) that are completely blank to me. And I've experienced moderate confusion and disorientation (I've gotten lost in my own neighborhood, or on the way to the grocery store I always use).

Has anyone else experienced long term cognitive impairment from ECT? If so, what have your symptoms been like?

I'm turning 60 this year and my memory has been deteriorating for a couple of years. At first, it was just inconvenient but now it is becomming more frequent.

I forget what month it is or what day it is. When I'm talking and can't remember a word, I stall and get stuck looking for the word. When this started happening, I would just use another word or phrase and keep on talking. Like you, I have trouble with names. Now I make a point of figuring out a name if I forget somebody. I also get disoriented sleeping and when I wake up, I forget where I am. In that case, I just lay there quietly until I remember.

For me, it might be early dementia, but I don't think I'll tell my doctor until it becomes a problem. Right now it is just an inconvenience.

It sure makes me wish I was young and sharp again.
But life goes on.

Take care,

Did you have ECT at some point?

Hmmm....guess no one has had ECT.

I just saw your post. Well I just completed a session of six with a further programme of 6 in 4 weeks. My total program will run over 18 months. Just as you say I have lost a lot of my short term memory and have gotten lost in what should be familiar territory. I forget things easily and get confused easily. So yes your symptoms sound familiar. I haven't had much problem with previous memories tho. I am not sure how long the issues last but I expect to be this way up until my treatment finishes, for at least 18 months. Having said that though my moods are heaps better after treatment.

I'm glad its working for you. I've heard that many people have found ECT to be an effective treatment. Unfortunately that wasn't the case for me. My last ECT treatment was years ago and the memory/cognitive problems persist.

Good luck with the rest of your treatment! I wish you all wellness!

Boomkat, I know there have been other people on this forum who have talked about their experiences with ECT. Unfortunately, I think the search feature only works for 4 letters or more, so here is a quick one I did. Youc an continue to search more if you think that would be helpful. I'm really sorry to hear about the memory loss.

search.php?st=0&sk=t&sd=d&sr=posts&keywords=Electro&fid%5B%5D=135