1. Learn to Deal With Depression
While it's completely normal to confront emotional struggles after having a stroke, you may be facing a clinical case of depression if these symptoms continue or worsen over the course of several weeks. Nearly 50 percent of stroke patients struggle with some form of depression, due to their loss of independence and the perception that they're unable to lead productive lives. While some depression may be caused by brain damage suffered during the stroke, much of what you're feeling is probably a response to a sense of grief and loss.
If you or your loved ones suspect that you're depressed, it's important to talk about it. Share your feelings with friends and make an appointment with a counseling professional to address your anger, sadness and loss of self-esteem. Attending regular therapy sessions after being discharged from the hospital may even prevent clinical depression. Your counselor may recommend that you consult with a psychiatrist, who is able to recommend an antidepressant, if necessary. In the meantime, exercise regularly, avoid isolating yourself and maintain hobbies to keep your mind away from destructive thoughts. If you feel suicidal or unable to control your emotions, contact a health professional immediately.
2. Deal With Seizure Activity
Post-stroke seizures are very serious and need to be addressed as quickly as possible. Seizures and epileptic conditions develop in many stroke sufferers, so it's critical that you consult with your doctor and begin anti-seizure drugs to avoid further brain damage and motor impairment. Your medical team will usually address post-stroke seizures in the same way it would address acute seizure disorders--by conducting cranial imaging tests and recommending an anticonvulsant. Remember, however, that the medication choice may vary depending upon the location, severity and frequency of the seizures.
3. Manage Post-Stroke Pain
One of the worst complications of a stroke is the pain that some patients develop during recovery. Thought to be the result of a hyperactive autonomic nervous symptom, this post-stroke discomfort can cause burning or aching in the limbs and extremities, prickly facial sensations or severe discomfort from a light touch.
Standard pain killers, such as ibuprofen and paracetamol, usually have no effect on post-stroke pain. Instead, your doctor may prescribe an antidepressant or an anti-epileptic. These formulations have shown promise in reducing nerve pain for some people, though the results are mixed. If medications do not decrease your post-stroke pain, consider homeopathic treatments like gentle yoga, acupuncture and biofeedback. Some studies indicate that spinal cord and deep brain stimulation also show promise for pain after stroke.
4. Address Infections Quickly
While you're hospitalized for a stroke, it is easy to catch infections from airborne pathogens, especially since your immune system is already compromised. In addition, you may struggle with urinary tract infections during stroke recovery, especially if you are catheterized for long periods. To prevent these complications, your medical team may place you on antibiotics during the acute recovery period to help your body fight off secondary infections. If you become ill or develop a UTI upon returning home, call your doctor immediately. Post-stroke infections can cause life-threatening complications if left unaddressed.
