Neurology Disorders » Post Stroke

What is a Stroke?

A stroke is when there is inadequate blood supply to the brain, which leads to brain cells not receiving oxygen and nutrients.  The two main types of stroke are ischemic  and hemorrhagic. Ischemic is the more common type of stroke.An ischemic stroke occurs if an artery that supplies oxygen-rich blood to the brain becomes blocked. Blood clots often cause the blockages that lead to ischemic strokes.A hemorrhagic stroke occurs if an artery in the brain leaks blood. The pressure from the leaked blood leads to damaging of brain cells. High blood pressure is one of causes hemorrhagic strokes.

The effects of a stroke depend on which part of the brain is injured, and how severely it is injured. Strokes may cause sudden weakness, loss of sensation, or difficulty with speaking, seeing, or walking. Since different parts of the brain control different areas and functions, it is usually the area immediately surrounding the stroke that is affected.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

After a patient suffers a stroke, there may be various physical and/or mental debilitations depending on the severity.  These can last for days, months or even years. They can improve over time and with rehabilitation, and some patients may fully recover.

We work with post-stroke patients by helping determine the extent of their debilitation, and best path in making a recovery.

Signs and Symptoms of Post-Stroke:

• Speech and Language Difficulty
• Memory problems
• Poor attention span
• Fatigue
• Visual problems
• Behavioral problems
• Spatial neglect
• Sexual problems
• Urinary incontinence
• Difficulty swallowing
• Weakness or paralysis
• Pain, tingling or numbness