But they may still be aware of symptoms like difficulty speaking ( aphasia) or loss of vision ( hemianopia). For example, someone with hemiplegia may not realize that one side of their body is weak or paralyzed. Someone may even acknowledge certain symptoms but not others.
They may then suddenly become unware and miss an appointment or forget to take medication shortly afterward because they can no longer perceive their condition. Someone can be aware of their condition and treat it with medication or doctor’s visits. And still others may be confused or frustrated when the people contradict what they believe to be true. Others may avoid talking about the condition because they think no one believes them. Some may bluntly acknowledge that they think nothing’s wrong with them.
Not everyone with this condition shows it in the same way. Here are some ways to understand the difference between anosognosia and denial or other responses to illness: This is possible even if there’s extensive proof that you do. The most notable symptom of anosognosia is a lack of understanding, awareness, or acceptance that you have a medical condition. Let’s take a closer look at what causes this symptom, how to recognize it, and what you and your loved ones can do to cope. In fact, anosognosia is central in conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. It’s not just stubbornness or outright denial, which is a defense mechanism some people use when they receive a difficult diagnosis to cope with. This occurs despite significant evidence of a diagnosis, and despite second and even third medical opinions confirming the validity of a diagnosis.Īnosognosia is a result of changes to the brain. It’s a person’s inability to accept that they have a condition that matches up with their symptoms or a formal diagnosis. This loosely means “lack of awareness or insight” in Greek.Īnosognosia is a lack of ability to perceive the realities of one’s own condition. This isn’t unusual, and most people eventually accept the diagnosis.īut sometimes, the rejection is long-lasting, and it’s not simply denial that’s causing a person to reject the facts. 
People don’t always feel comfortable admitting to themselves or others that they have a condition they’ve been newly diagnosed with.
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