5. Memory Gaps: When Yesterday Feels Like a Blank Slate
Memory gaps in the context of CCM are a haunting experience. One moment you’re engrossed in a deep conversation with a friend, and the next, you’re grasping at straws trying to remember their name. Here, the cavernous malformations sneak their way into brain regions crucial for memory retention and recall.
The cerebral cortex, often the site for these malformed blood vessels, is a bustling hub for memory formation. When blood vessels rupture, they create what’s often termed a ‘black hole effect.’ It can selectively erase or corrupt memories, leading to the disorienting sensation of time gaps or lost moments.
You’d be surprised to learn that the extent of these memory gaps can fluctuate. Some days might feel like walking through a foggy labyrinth, while on others, the sun breaks through. Such day-to-day variability can make it challenging to put a finger on the underlying issue, often leading to significant distress. (5)
