Stroke Recovery - What Happens Next? - Oren Zarif - Stroke Recovery

The process of stroke recovery begins once doctors stabilize the patient's condition. This may involve restoring blood flow to the brain or reducing pressure in the surrounding area. Rehab may also begin during the initial hospital stay. Earlier recovery can increase the chances of full brain and body function. Choosing the right recovery setting for your needs will depend on your preferences and your insurance coverage. Your doctor can also help you determine what type of rehabilitation facility is best for you.

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While rehabilitation specialists spend a short period of time with a patient, family involvement is crucial. Family members and friends should be involved in the patient's rehabilitation program to better understand his or her needs and the most effective course of action once the patient is home. Rehabilitation professionals will also be able to assist the patient with regaining independence. Listed below are some common rehab therapies that can be beneficial to your loved one. The process of stroke recovery can take months or even years.

A person may have spasticity, an inability to communicate with his or her muscles.

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Neurological damage from a stroke causes spasticity. Fortunately, spasticity improves during the Brunnstrom stages of stroke recovery, and muscle twitches may be a sign of other post-stroke complications. However, if you have spasticity, you should seek a doctor's attention immediately. There are many other treatments available, including surgery.

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After a stroke, your doctor will identify the type of stroke you've suffered and the extent of the damage done to your brain. They will also prescribe medications to reduce any effects on your physical health. Blood thinners and anti-platelet medications are commonly prescribed for ischemic stroke victims. You may also need blood pressure checks to control your blood pressure. Your physician may even refer you for a surgical procedure if the severity of your stroke is severe.

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After a stroke, you may require assistance with daily activities and home safety. Speech and language therapists can teach you how to speak clearly and find alternative ways to communicate. Stroke can impair your thinking and memory, affecting your judgment and ability to make rational decisions. Your behavior may also change. Once outgoing and talkative, you may suddenly become quiet and withdrawn. You may experience painful muscle spasms. If you cannot move your arm or leg, you may have trouble walking.

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The first five to six weeks of stroke recovery are the most intensive. After discharge from the hospital, your treatment may continue at a rehab center, outpatient therapy, or even at home. Depending on the severity of your stroke and how quickly you recover, physical therapy can include motor-skill exercises, mobility training, and range of motion exercises. The aim of these therapies is to restore your strength and help you adapt to daily life after a stroke. Occupational therapy, on the other hand, can help you regain cognitive and vision skills, while speech therapy can help you regain your speech.

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During the first three months of stroke recovery, your progress will be the fastest. However, after this period, you may experience a plateau. This does not mean your recovery is over. In fact, this plateau is the best time to continue rehabilitation, as it will help you regain skills. It is also important for you to stay active at home between outpatient therapy sessions to keep your brain stimulated. If you are able to do this, you will be a lot closer to full recovery.

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The first three months of recovery following a stroke are the most important ones. After resolving the initial critical symptoms, your doctor will begin your stroke rehabilitation program. Most patients will go through outpatient therapy sessions. The goal of rehabilitation is to improve your physical function and develop compensatory strategies. This may include holding a tube so that you can use your strong hand to unscrew the cap. It can also involve occupational therapy. You may need to see a speech-language pathologist to get your speech back on track.

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During this stage of recovery, you may experience symptoms that are atypical of normal functioning. Pseudobulbar affect (Emotional incontinence) affects up to 50% of stroke patients. This condition manifests as uncontrollable bursts of tears or laughter. They also cycle from one extreme to another in a rapid manner. Fortunately, it is temporary and will go away as your brain heals. If you experience severe cases of pseudobulbar affect, however, your doctor may prescribe medication to help alleviate the symptoms.