You may have heard the phrase "different strokes for different folks." This phrase may refer to the fact that each person's experience with a stroke is unique. Because the brain is such a complex, multi-faceted organ, any damage that occurs to it has a specific result. The result depends upon the specific area of the brain that was affected by the stroke and the extent of the damaged area of the brain. The damage to the brain can cause various impairments or damage to the mind and body. Some other effects from stroke are listed here. The following list of impairments or disabilities that may result from a stroke is not inclusive.
Lack of sensation
The brain controls the ability to send signals, telling how something feels, to parts of the body. People are able to discern if something feels rough or smooth, hot or cold, etc. These signals can be interrupted after a stroke, leaving survivors unable to respond to touch on the affected side of the body. This lack of sensation needs to be considered when the survivor is positioned, bathed, and/or engaged in other daily tasks.
Loss of bowel or bladder control
Following a stroke, survivors may lose control of their excretory functions. There may be difficulty passing urine or having bowel movements. It is important that others be sensitive to survivors with these symptoms and make necessary adjustments to accommodate them. Caregivers may have to work with survivors to establish a routine for managing elimination. Caregivers should devise means that assure survivors have means to communicate their personal needs.
Feeling Pain
A stroke itself does not cause pain, but there are other reasons that people experience pain after a stroke. The inability to move joints and limbs, particularly the shoulder joints, may cause pain. It is important that the survivor be able to communicate the location and the severity of the pain. Your doctor, your physical therapist and your speech-language pathologist can help with treating the symptoms of the pain and with establishing effective means of communicating the severity of the pain.
Loss of Energy
- Physical fatigue can be a major issue for months and, even years after a stroke. For the first several weeks, following a stroke, you may feel exhausted. Knowing that fatigue is a symptom of strokes can be helpful in understanding the survivors' lack of energy. Survivors may be encouraged to take naps or breaks, schedule tasks at the time of day when their energy levels are highest, and not overexert themselves.
- Depression: it is natural to feel sad after a stroke and usually this feeling gradually improves. If the sadness continues, it may be a symptom of post-stroke depression. The signs of depression are changes in weight, sleeping issues, fatigue, withdrawal, and overwhelming sadness. Post-stroke depression is serious and can influence recovery. Your doctor and therapist have effective treatments for depression.
Changes in behavior
After a stroke, survivors may become easily agitated, demonstrate impulsivity, lack of concern, shortened attention span and inappropriate social behavior. Sometimes an injury to the brain can cause survivors to display uncontrolled anger. Changes in the survivors' disposition can be upsetting to them and their family. Survivors and/or caregivers may need to consult their doctor and therapists to manage these behavior issues.
Problems being intimate
Stroke survivors and/or their sexual partners may be concerned about sexual activity after a stroke. Sex after a stroke is safe - there is no evidence that sexual activity will cause another stroke. Depending upon the type of stroke, there can also be issues with arousal. Survivors should consult their doctor, if they have concerns.
Some doctors, treating stroke survivors, may prescribe medications that affect sexual performance. Doctors should also advise you of any adverse effects of medications that are prescribed. Survivors and their sexual partners must also be sensitive to other issues that can alter sexual behavior, such as lack of sensation, fatigue, and/or anxiety.
