Having a stroke is a serious, often life-altering event. If you recently experienced a stroke, it may take some time for life to go back to normal.
You may wonder if your brain will fully heal after a stroke. Recovery differs case by case. Approximately 10 percent of stroke survivors will recover almost completely from the catastrophic event, according to the American Stroke Association. About 25 percent of stroke survivors will recover with only minor lasting damage.
It may take you a few weeks to get back on your feet, or you may deal with a long-term disability. Having patience, determination and a good support system can help you through the stroke recovery stages.
Physical Changes After a Stroke
Your body just survived a life-threatening medical emergency, and your body may not feel or work quite the same as before. A stroke causes injury to the brain, and because your brain controls everything from movement to reflexes, you may notice significant physical changes.
Fatigue
Post-stroke fatigue is a lack of physical and mental energy that interferes with daily activities. It affects approximately half of adults who experience a stroke, according to a study published by the American Academy of Neurology.
Seizures
Seizures occur because of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. They cause involuntary movements, blackouts, confusion or convulsions. The risk of seizure increases after someone has had a severe stroke, a hemorrhagic stroke (caused by bleeding in the brain), or a stroke that affects the cerebral cortex.
Spasticity
Spasticity occurs when muscles involuntarily contract. This is common in stroke survivors. Muscles can become stiff and tight and sometimes freeze in a painful position. Spasticity can be treated with medication or injections.
Weakness or Paralysis on One Side
A stroke may cause weakness on the opposite side of the body affected. For example, if the left side of your brain was damaged, you may have paralysis on the right side of your body. Paralysis can result in difficulty using an arm and hand, balance problems, and foot drop—when you cannot properly raise the front of the foot to walk.
Mental Health After a Stroke
The effects of stroke aren’t only physical. Experiencing a stroke increases your risk of developing a mental health condition, including anxiety, depression or both. If symptoms of anxiety or depression begin to affect your daily activities, speak with your primary care provider.
Steps of the Recovery Process
While recovery can take time, it is possible to regain your independence after having a stroke. Follow your physician’s recommendations for a proper recovery. Here is what your medical team may recommend:
- Start rehabilitation. Rehabilitation greatly influences your health outcomes and recovery time. Depending on the severity of your stroke, you may work with a physical therapist, speech therapist and occupational therapist. According to general guidelines from the American Stroke Association, stroke survivors should participate in at least three hours of therapy, five days a week at an inpatient rehabilitation facility.
- Consider at-home therapy. Inpatient therapy is a good start, but after discharge from the hospital you may need to continue reaching specific recovery goals. Home-based therapy may help you maintain gains achieved during inpatient rehabilitation.
- Get mental health support. Don’t deal with the mental health effects of a stroke alone. You have plenty of options available to you, including cognitive-behavioral, speech and mindfulness therapies. Ask your physician what’s recommended based on your unique symptoms.
- Modify your home. Your home may not be easy to maneuver following a stroke. Installing grab bars, raised toilet seats and a shower bench may help you more easily get around.
- Use assistive devices. Your physical therapist may also recommend assistive devices, such as a cane, brace or walker, to help you if you’re struggling with spasticity or coordination issues.
The UM Rehabilitation Network is Here to Help
The University of Maryland Rehabilitation Network, a system of rehab providers across Maryland that work together to help people recover from illness or injury, can help you get back on your feet after a stroke. With locations across the state, you can have access to comprehensive, compassionate rehabilitation services close to home.
Preventing Another Stroke
One in 4 people who experience a stroke will have another. But don’t let the odds scare you—there is hope to prevent future events. Approximately 80 percent of strokes can be prevented through lifestyle changes, including keeping your blood pressure and cholesterol levels in healthy ranges maintaining an active lifestyle and eating healthy.
Warning Signs of Recurrent Stroke
When it comes to stroke, BE FAST:
- Balance: Experiencing sudden loss of coordination or balance
- Eyes: Sudden change in vision
- Face: One side of the face droops when smiling
- Arms: One arm drifts downward when both arms are raised
- Speech: Slurred or strange speech
- Time: Call 911 immediately if any of these symptoms are observed.
