What to do After a Stroke


After a stroke there can be different stages of recover for the survivor. A stroke can happen to anyone despite age, race or gender. It does not discriminate and can happen at any time. In the following article will discuss the various forms of rehabilitation available for post stroke recovery.The cause of a stroke can be from two different causes a bleed or a block. A large range of different therapies exists to help with any of the difficulties that may be faced by the survivor pot stroke. This may entail cognitive therapy, counseling or psychological work and the traditional physical type of therapy.

There are two main types of strokes with a common underlying principle of interrupting blood to the brain. Because everyone is a unique individual with a unique genetic makeup and life history, the symptoms experienced post stroke will be slightly different for everyone. There can be a bleed or block causing the stroke. A block could be a blood clot or any material that impedes the flow of blood. The substance causing the block is sometimes referred to as an embolism. A bleed will occur when a blood vessel bursts this is typically called a hemorrhage.

Cognitive therapy refers to any type of rehab that does not involve movement of the body or direct sensory stimulation. Cognition can be regarded as thought processes. Cognitive therapy may involve working on any language issues such as receptive (understanding) language or expressive (speaking) language problems. It can consist of practicing memory or concentration which may have been affected by the stroke.
One critical component of cognitive therapy is addressing any psychological issues such as frustration, anger or negativity. This may involve some counseling by a professional. Post stroke life can be difficult and take time adjusting to. Although family members can provide support sometimes a trained professional with
experience in these issues can really help. It is important that any of these psychological issues are addressed and do not impede recovery or rehabilitation.

The last part of recovery is the most common part of physical therapy. This will focus on learning or regaining movement of the limbs or body. It can also focus on improving any sensory processing problems that may be present. For example problems with vision or the sensation of feeling on the skin. Regaining some movement can go a long way to providing independence for stroke survivors and enabling them to do some of the basic skills such as feeding, hygiene and putting clothes on. Improvement in these areas can really increase the quality of life for a stroke survivor.

The steps of recovery taken after a stroke are very important. Stroke rehabilitation has the goal of helping the survivor recover their independence by improving skills that may have been affected by the stroke. It is important with stroke rehabilitation to take one day at a time and strive for small goals. Remember a little
improvements over time add up to big improvements.