A stroke is a blockage of blood flow to the brain either because of a blocked blood vessel or a bleeding blood vessel. The brain is sensitive to a disruption of blood flow and brain cells can die, causing permanent damage. According to Medline Plus, people who have a stroke from a blocked blood vessel have fewer effects from a stroke than those who have a stroke from a bleeding blood vessel in the brain. Be aware of the effects of having a stroke.
Loss of Movement
The classic effects of having a stroke are weakness, paralysis or loss of movement in one or multiple parts of the body. This occurs because the part of the brain that controls movement can be affected by a stroke. Stroke effects are seen on the opposite side of the body from where the stroke in the brain occurred. For example, if a major stroke occurs on the right side of the brain, then the left side of the body will be affected. These deficits can reduce your ability to function or care for yourself, according to Medline Plus. You may have difficulty walking or moving objects with your affected side.
Muscle Spasticity
According to Medline Plus, muscle spasticity is the involuntary contracture of a muscle. These contractures can make moving difficult and painful. This occurs because the brain prevents muscle spasticity when healthy. However, when damaged, such as during a stroke, the brain is the cause of muscle contractures.
Difficulty Talking
The Mayo Clinic states that you may experience difficulty talking after having a stroke. This occurs because a stroke can affect the muscles that are involved with talking. In addition, a stroke can affect the part of the brain that is involved with communication. Therefore, you may not be able to express your thoughts or understand what is being communicated to you.
Difficulty Swallowing
Difficulty swallowing is an effect of having a stroke, according to the Mayo Clinic. Swallowing is difficult because the muscles involved in swallowing may be weak or paralyzed. This is a dangerous complication because you can accidentally inhale food or liquid that you meant to swallow. This can result in choking or pneumonia.
