Post Stroke
POST STROKEWhat is Post Stroke?
Post stroke refers to the period following a stroke, a medical event that occurs when there is a disruption in the blood flow to the brain. This can result in brain damage that affects various physical, cognitive, and emotional functions. The effects can vary depending on the location and severity of the stroke, and individuals may experience challenges with movement, speech, memory, and other daily activities. Post stroke rehabilitation focuses on helping individuals recover or adapt to these changes.
POST STROKE CAUSESWhat are the causes?
The causes of a stroke include:
- Ischemic Stroke: Occurs when a blood clot blocks or narrows an artery leading to the brain, cutting off blood supply.
- Atherosclerosis (build-up of fatty deposits in blood vessels)
- Blood clots (from heart problems like atrial fibrillation)
- Embolism (a clot or plaque traveling to the brain)
- Hemorrhagic Stroke: Occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, leading to bleeding in or around the brain.
- High blood pressure (leading to weakened blood vessels)
- Aneurysm (weakening of blood vessel walls)
- Arteriovenous malformations (abnormal connections between arteries and veins)
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Often called a “mini-stroke,” it’s a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, which can lead to stroke-like symptoms that resolve after a short period.
Other risk factors include smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, excessive alcohol use, obesity, and a family history of stroke.
POST STROKE DIAGNOSISHow is it diagnosed?
Post stroke diagnosis typically involves:
- Medical History: The doctor will review the patient’s health history, risk factors, and details about the stroke symptoms.
- Physical and Neurological Exam: A physical exam to assess motor skills, coordination, strength, and speech.
- Imaging Tests:
- CT Scan (Computed Tomography) or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Used to detect the presence of bleeding, brain damage, and to assess the extent of the stroke.
- Blood Tests: To check for underlying causes like blood clotting issues or infections.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): To check for heart problems that could have led to a stroke.
- Carotid Ultrasound: To examine the carotid arteries for blockages or narrowing.
- Cerebral Angiography: A special type of X-ray to view blood flow in the brain.
Diagnosis helps determine the stroke type and severity, guiding treatment and rehabilitation plans.
POST STROKE TREATMENTHow is it treated?
Speech-language therapy for post-stroke treatment focuses on improving communication and swallowing abilities, depending on the specific deficits. Treatment may include:
- Speech Therapy:
- Articulation exercises: Helping with speech clarity through specific sound and word repetition.
- Word-finding strategies: Techniques to assist with recalling words or creating alternative ways to express ideas when specific words are forgotten.
- Fluency therapy: Addressing stuttering or difficulty with the smooth flow of speech.
- Language Therapy:
- Aphasia treatment: For patients with aphasia (language impairment), exercises focus on improving speaking, understanding, reading, and writing.
- Comprehension exercises: Strengthening the ability to understand spoken and written language.
- Swallowing Therapy (Dysphagia):
- Swallowing exercises: Techniques to improve swallowing function, such as strengthening oral and throat muscles.
- Dietary modifications: Recommendations for food textures to prevent choking.
- Cognitive-communication therapy: Improving memory, problem-solving, attention, and executive functions that affect communication.
Therapists create individualized plans that target the patient’s specific challenges, using techniques and exercises to improve their quality of life post-stroke.
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