Recovery After a Stroke

Stroke sufferers may develop temporary or permanent disabilities after the medical crisis. However, even when recovery can't restore all lost abilities, patients are often able to return to a normal, active life.

Objective

• The main priority of recovery following a stroke is restoring the patient's health as much as possible so that she can function independently. As a result, rehabilitation usually focuses on re-teaching the patient skills she has partially or entirely lost, such as walking.

Complications Requiring Recovery

• Strokes can cause difficulty swallowing or talking, an inability to complete everyday tasks like dressing, memory loss, pain, problems comprehending concepts, reduced muscle control and social difficulties.

Recovery Length

• The time required for recovery depends on the amount of brain damage and the severity of related symptoms. For example, if medical assistance occurs quickly, resulting disabilities may be temporary and need less rehabilitation. Permanent disabilities require longer and more intense rehabilitation.

Recovery Side Effects

• Recovering from a stroke is mentally demanding, which may produce decreased sex drive, moodiness and feelings of apathy, depression, frustration and helplessness.

Facilitating Recovery

• Physical and emotional support and assistance from others, such as family members and friends, is essential during recovery. Patients who are motivated and cope with hardship well are also at an advantage.