Dizziness, loss of balance, altered vision -- these conditions are the unwelcome signs that someone may be experiencing a stroke.

A stroke occurs when not enough blood flows to the brain and the resulting restriction of oxygen to brain cells causes those cells to die.  What brings this about? Is recovery possible?

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, of the surviving two-thirds of the 700,000 Americans suffering from stroke each year, about 80 percent are caused from arterial blockage in the brain or neck.  Bursting blood vessels in the brain accounts for the remaining 20 percent.  The outcome of these attacks depends on the area of the brain affected. 

In general, five disabilities are seen after a stroke:

·         paralysis or problems with movement

·         sensory difficulties

·         problems using or understanding language

·         problems with thinking and memory

·         emotional difficulties

After a stroke, healthcare specialists teach patients how to function with these disabilities.  A physician is responsible for the long-term care of the patient and assigns any specialized therapies needed.  Rehabilitation nurses educate the patient on how to carry out daily living activities.  Physical therapists treat disabilities that result from motor and sensory damage, working to help the patient regain use of their impaired limbs.  Occupational therapists teach the patient how to carry out self-directed tasks such as cleaning, gardening and crafts. 

Speech-language pathologists help stroke patients relearn how to use language or develop other means of communication.  They also focus on strengthening memory and easing swallowing difficulties.  Emotional difficulties are addressed by psychologists and may be treated with anti-depressant medications.  Vocational therapists help patients identify what they can do well and find occupations that use those tasks.  They also educate them about their rights as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Although post-stroke rehabilitation can improve a patient, it is not a cure for stroke, because it cannot reverse the damage that has been done in the brain.  It can, however, help individuals adjust to how their body now functions, allowing them to hold on to as much of their independence as possible.

Many survivors of stroke are able to return home, but some require additional care.  There are inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation facilities where patients work with therapists during more intense programs.  There are also nursing facilities.  A skilled nursing facility typically provides more of a rehabilitation environment, whereas a nursing home focuses primarily on residential care.  Home-based rehabilitation allows for more flexibility and the comforts of the patient’s living environment, yet therapy may be restricted due to lack of specialized equipment.

For more information, talk to your doctor or contact the National Rehabilitation Information Center at www.naric.com.

Dr. Ahmad is a board-certified cardiologist caring for hundreds of patients each year.  He is one of the many quality physicians on staff at Des Peres Hospital.