How can I reduce my risk of developing anosognosia or prevent it from happening?

How can I reduce my risk of developing anosognosia or prevent it from happening?

Anosognosia is a condition that happens unpredictably, so it’s not preventable. It also has to happen alongside other conditions or problems like stroke or schizophrenia. While some of these conditions are preventable, having them isn’t a guarantee that you’ll develop anosognosia.

It’s still a good idea to take care of and protect your brain. The best things you can do include:

• Eat a balanced diet and maintain a weight that's healthy for you. Many conditions related to your circulatory and heart health, especially stroke, can cause brain damage. Preventing stroke and similar conditions is a key way to reduce the risk of developing conditions that can lead to anosognosia.
• Don’t ignore infections. Eye and ear infections that spread to your brain can easily become serious or deadly. They can also cause brain damage that leads to conditions involving anosognosia.
• Wear safety equipment. Brain damage from head injuries can cause problems that also involve anosognosia. That means safety equipment, especially helmets, are essential both at work and during your off-hours.
• Manage your health conditions. It’s essential to manage conditions that can lead to or involve anosognosia, especially mental health conditions like schizophrenia. Managing those conditions can help you avoid serious complications or situations where an unmanaged condition becomes much worse.