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A stroke occurs when a blockage in a cerebral artery
(a blood clot, an air bubble) or a hemorrhage cuts off the blood supply
to a part of the brain. Without oxygen and glucose, brain tissue dies.
In general, damage to the right side of the brain causes paralysis on
the left side of the body, a loss of spatial perception, and
forgetfulness. Damage to the brain's left side causes paralysis of the
right side of the body, speech impairment, and difficulty understanding
or remembering language.
Joint and muscle manipulation and other forms of passive physiotherapy
start immediately after the stroke to prevent bedsores, lung problems,
thrombosis, and muscle atrophy. Special rehabilitation programs follow;
physiotherapists work on balance, spatial perception, and reeducating
the patient's muscles; speech therapists deal with language
difficulties; occupational therapists concentrate on daily living skills
such as hygiene, feeding, and dressing.
Stroke victims frequently suffer depression, a frustrating barrier to
rehabilitation for the patient and a cause of misunderstanding for
family and friends who are trying to help. The patient's depression may
well be caused by specific brain damage that occurred during the stroke;
it isn't just a psychological reaction to the stroke, as people close to
the patient may think.
Depression following stroke can often be successfully treated with
antidepressant drugs that act chemically on the brain. However, family
and friends can help by paying attention when the patient expresses
feelings, by trying to find practical solutions to specific problems,
and by offering encouragement at each step toward recovery.
The goal of all therapy is to restore as much as possible the patient's
independence and productivity. Some patients spontaneously recover their
physical and mental functioning during the first 30 days after the
stroke. Others make a nearly complete recovery with hard work and the
support of family and friends; most patients, however, do suffer
permanent limitations.
Source: Reader's Digest: The Good Health Fact Book
Disclaimer: All the information on this page is strictly
provided for informational purposes to better educate yourself only. It is
not meant to substitute for the advice of your own physician or other
medical professional. Do not use the information contained herein for
diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any
medication.
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