The American Heart Association reports that as of 2006, over 6 million people had survived a stroke. A stroke occurs when the supply of blood to the brain becomes disrupted or reduced, depriving the brain of oxygen. The cells of the brain begin to die in as little as three to four minutes. The Mayo Clinic website warns that a stroke is a medical emergency and prompt treatment is vital to minimize brain damage and potential stroke complications.
Physical Effects
The"New York Times website explains that a lack of blood flow to the brain can cause paralysis or weakness on one side of the body, which may become permanent dependent upon how long the brain lacked oxygen. The American Stroke Association reports that patients who have suffered a stroke may experience involuntary muscle contractions when attempting to move the affected limb, creating a tightening and stiffness in the muscles. Stroke victims may lose their sense of balance easier following a stroke making them more prone to falls. Physicians often recommend physical therapy to help strengthen the affected side and improve a patient's ability to perform daily tasks independently.
Speech Difficulties
A stroke that has affected the muscles of the mouth and throat or that has affected the language center of the brain may cause difficulty with speech. The American Stroke Association points out that following a stroke, a person may suffer from a myriad of speech problems. Complications may include slurred speech, inability to form words due to muscle weakness or paralysis, the inability to comprehend others speech, the ability to communicate through writing. Speech and language pathologists work with stroke victims to help them regain function or to teach them to work around the aphasia.
Swallowing Difficulties
Weakened throat muscles affect a patient's ability to swallow properly. Following a stroke, patients may report a feeling of food sticking in the throat or chest. The National Institute of Health warns that weakened throat muscles may cause patients to inhale food into the airway, which can lead to a condition known as aspiration pneumonia. Aspiration pneumonia requires antibiotics and may involve a lengthy recovery process. Physicians often order a swallow study to evaluate the patient's ability to swallow following a stroke.
Pain
Pain following a stroke ranges from mild or severe. Patients who have suffered paralysis or muscle weakness on one side may report numbness, tingling and sensitivity to temperature, according to the Mayo Clinic's website. In some cases, stroke victims suffer from a condition known as Central pain syndrome. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke educates that central pain syndrome, also known as thalamic pain, may occur throughout the body or in one specific area. Symptoms of this condition include a constant burning pain with intermittent feelings of tingling, stabbing or aching pain. Temperature fluctuations or touch often exacerbates the condition. Pain medication can often control symptoms but there is currently no cure for the condition.
