Anosognosia can be quite distressing, because you may not understand why you’re in hospital or why people think you cannot do things for yourself.
What is anosognosia?
Sometimes after a stroke, people are not able to recognise the effect it has on them. You may not know you’ve lost movement in your arm or leg, for example. This is called anosognosia.
If you experience this kind of confusion, it’s more likely to be with movement or visual problems, although it can apply to other problems too. People who have neglect are more likely to experience anosognosia.
Signs of anosognosia
If you have anosognosia you may:
- Not notice the effects of your stroke, or show much concern about them.
- Be aware of some problems but not others. For example, you may be aware you have communication problems, but not know that you cannot move one side of your body.
- Be aware of problems but not know what they mean, so you may try to walk, even if you know you cannot move your leg.
- Think your affected limbs do not belong to you.
- Not accept you have any problems at all, even when someone shows you that you do.
Can anosognosia improve?
We do not really understand why it happens, but it can be quite common, especially in the very early stages after stroke.
It can also come and go, so you may not experience it all the time. However, it can get better and only lasts a few days or weeks in most cases. Only a small number of people continue to experience anosognosia months after their stroke.
What can I do about anosognosia?
Usually if you have problems with anosognosia, they will be picked up by your doctors or therapists while you’re in hospital or by your community team when you’re back at home. If they have not been, and you start to notice you may be having problems, then contact your GP.
If these problems are making day-to-day life difficult, then you should be referred to an occupational therapist. They will work with you to find ways to help you cope. They can also suggest aids and equipment to help you.