Recovering from a stroke can be a difficult and daunting process. Although a stroke can be devastating, prompt treatment with medications combined with a good rehabilitation doctor and team of therapists can help you achieve maximum recovery. According to the National Stroke Association (NSA), 35 percent of stroke victims either fully recover or only have minimal deficits. The after-effects of stroke range from mild to debilitating.
Physical Effects
According to the NSA, a stroke affects physical features of the opposite side of the body. For example, a stroke in the right side of the brain will affect the left side of the body. This can result in weakness or complete paralysis, making it difficult to impossible to perform daily tasks. A stroke survivor may need close supervision and assistance with daily tasks such as taking showers, dressing and eating. However, with intensive therapy, some of these deficits can improve.
Mental Effects
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), strokes can affect perception, awareness and the ability to think clearly. Stroke victims may not be able to recognize everyday objects.
Victims may not be fully aware of the side of their body that is weak, according to the AHA. Therefore, they may injure the weak side of their body by walking into doors and other objects. Some stroke patients are unaware of their environment on the affected side of their bodies. For example, a victim with left-sided weakness may not be aware of the food on the left side of their plate.
Finally, victims may not be able to think clearly. According to the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), nearly one-third of stroke victims will suffer from memory loss. Other deficits include a slowing of thinking processes.
Chewing and Swallowing
According to the AHA, chewing and swallowing food can also be difficult following stroke. This can result in choking as certain parts of the mouth may lack feeling and be weak. According to the January 2006 Annals of Internal Medicine, a test to determine the safety of swallowing is routinely performed by a radiologist before hospital discharge. Speech therapy may be an option, depending on the results of the swallowing test. If progress is not made, a feeding tube may be necessary for nourishment.
