My husband also had a right brain stroke that has left him with personality changes. Where he used to take everything for granted, now he says "I'm sorry" and "thank you" for everything. Sounds great in theory, but in reality it can be infuriating. (I know that sounds crazy, but it's true) He also seems as if he is in denial about much of his condition. It is very hard to get him to answer questions with anything other than a generalization. When asked (even by a Dr.) how he is doing, he always answers "fine", even when it is obvious that he isn't fine. Asking him leading questions is just as bad because he answers with what he thinks you want to hear. "How much water did you drink?" His answer: "plenty". "How many glasses of water did you drink?" His answer: "several". "Did you drink two glasses of water?" His answer: "yes". For all I know, he didn't drink a single glass, or for that matter, he could have had 15! It takes all the patience I have not to blow up in his face! I've explained time and time again that specifics are needed. I expect I'll be explaining that for the rest of our lives. From what I've learned about right brain strokes, denial is one of the symptoms and effects. It scares me because if something else happens, I might not know before it is too late. Anyhow, we have an appointment with neuropsych and I hope you can get one too. Sometimes I wonder who benefits more, the patient or the caregiver? Many hugs, I know you need them.
