How to Live With the Effects of a Stroke

The treatment for a stroke doesn't end as the victim leaves the hospital. Once a person has suffered a stroke, there are lasting complications that have to be dealt with in the long run. Learning to live with the effects of a stroke can take time, and is often difficult on both the victim as well as the people around him.

Instructions

Know What to Watch For

• 1

  Watch for signs of depression. Depression is a common occurrence after a stroke. This can manifest as trouble sleeping, troubles making decisions, being overly worried, or feeling hopeless. If any of these symptoms appear after a stroke, it's important to talk to a medical practitioner about them. Treatment with medication or psychotherapy can make a big difference in the quality of life of a stroke survivor.

• 2

  Wait for the right time to start therapy. Give the body time to adjust to the medication and to recuperate enough so that therapy is a step forward and not an additional burden.

• 3

  Do not become careless. Many stroke victims put themselves at danger by trying to return to their normal way of doing things. Many stroke victims are also unaware of their actions, so it's important to have somebody around at all times.

• 4

  Be aware of symptoms of dysphagia, a medical problem that makes it difficult for people to swallow. Many stroke victims end up losing weight and suffering problems related to nutrition because they cannot eat properly.

• 5

  Learn about the possibility of problems with bowel or bladder control. This is a subject many people avoid but one stroke survivors need to live with. If incontinence is a problem, then it's important to find out about toilet devices that can be used to make the situation easier.

• 6

  Remember that it takes time to learn to live with the effects of stroke. About 40 percent of people who suffer a stroke regain partial abilities, but even that takes time and the help of dedicated professionals.