Hidden Danger: Spatial neglect can complicate recovery after stroke.
Year: 2009
Type: article
Abstract: Recovering from a stroke, or cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is often rife with challenges. And depending on the severity, some patients never fully recover. Although it's important to treat the obvious side effects following stroke, you must watch for more subtle dysfunctions. Hidden disabilities are common after stroke and affect 225,000 to 350,000 people each year.
Years ago, we treated a stroke survivor who was having difficulties with memory and speaking as a result of the CVA. While completing the initial evaluation, the patient casually mentioned she was having difficulty staying on the road when driving. Concerned for her safety, we immediately stopped her from driving. But we were also suspicious that this new behavior indicated a more serious problem than she perceived.
This case was one of the first to peak my interest in a hidden, debilitating condition called spatial neglect. Spatial neglect is common in patients who've suffered a stroke on the right side of the brain. Health care practitioners may observe the disorder in patients, but clinicians may not be familiar with its name, science and associated treatments.
Spatial neglect can complicate recovery from even a mild stroke. It's characterized by difficulty recognizing and reacting appropriately to events in a 3-D space on the side opposite the brain injury. Objects may be ignored, or may appear displaced to the right or left. Common dangers caused by the disorder include auto accidents, falls and cooking related injuries.
Source: PubMed
Authors: Anna M Barrett, Cristin McKenna
Language: English
Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W1962063135