Can you recover from hippocampus damage?

Recovering from Hippocampus Damage An injury to the hippocampus can cause serious memory problems. But fortunately, physical and cognitive exercises can help reverse some of the worst effects of hippocampus damage and improve your memory skills.

Can you reverse brain shrinkage from depression?

Although cell atrophy and loss would appear to be difficult to repair, there is evidence that these deficits can be reversed or blocked by eliminating stress and treating depression [2,3].

Is hippocampus shrinkage reversible?

Observational studies and preliminary clinical trials have raised the possibility that physical exercise, cognitive stimulation and treatment of general medical conditions can reverse age- related atrophy in the hippocampus, or even expand its size.

What happens to the hippocampus in depression?

The hippocampus, an area of the brain responsible for memory and emotion, shrinks in people with recurrent and poorly treated depression, a global study has found.

Can neurons regenerate?

Contrary to popular belief, our neurons are able to regenerate, even in adults. This process is called neurogenesis.

Does the hippocampus shrink with depression?

Can you recover from brain shrinkage?

There is no specific treatment or cure for cerebral atrophy. Some symptoms of underlying causes can be managed and treated. Controlling blood pressure and eating a healthy, balanced diet is advised. Some research suggests that physical exercise may slow the speed of atrophy.

Why does the hippocampus shrink in depression?

In addition to abnormalities in the HPA axis, other biological abnormalities have been recently shown to contribute to hippocampal volume loss: stress-induced reduction in neurotrophic factors, in particular BDNF, and stress-induced reduction in neurogenesis.

How long does it take to reverse hippocampal damage?

There is good news on that front.Abstinence from alcohol will reverse hippocampal damage within 6 to 12 months. Antidepressants have been found to stimulate production of n…

Do Antidepressants affect the hippocampus?

A number of studies using rodents indicate that some of the standard treatments for depression, namely administration of antidepressant drugs or the use of electroconvulsive therapy, have effects on the hippocampus that should counter those reported in major depression.

What are the effects of hippocampal shrinkage?

You may be more likely to engage in self-destructive activity, including substance abuse. Hippocampal shrinkage also damages cognitive functions and interferes with the process of creating memories, which has a profound impact on both behavior and the ability to form a stable, realistic, and cohesive sense of self.

What is the best treatment for hippocampal damage caused by depression?

Research indicates that people who have experienced hippocampal damage as the result of recurrent depression are best served using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and antidepressant use.