Lifestyle changes afterstrokeimpact entire families, not just the person with the stroke.
Medications and treatments may be able to help you.
Your practitioner might also recommend that you see a mental health professional for specialized treatment.
Illustration by Ellen Lindner for Verywell Health
Grief
Some people experience a grieving process after a stroke.
Journaling, talking with a friend, or seeing a therapist can help your emotional healing.
Faith leaders often can provide pastoral care to those who value spiritual insights within their tradition.
Self-Esteem
The effects of stroke can also challenge your self-esteem.
Be gentle with yourself, avoid being self-critical, and venture to reframe negative self-talk with positive thoughts.
In PBA, there is a disconnect between the parts of the brain that control emotions and reflexes.
Depression
Depressionis common after a stroke.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call911.
Medications, therapy, and patient education about stroke can all be helpful.
Physical Limitations
Coping with physical limitations after a stroke can be a struggle.
This commonly affects the face, arm, or leg or a combination of the three.
These sensations may come and go but may eventually stabilize.
Physical therapy is the most effective way to combat balance impairment after a stroke.
Pain
Many stroke survivors experience new-onset pain after a stroke.
However, swallowing problems can be quite dangerous.
Some stroke survivors also experiencebladder retention, which is the inability to urinate on demand.
Both of these problems can be managed with medical treatment and physical therapy.
Urination problems can be embarrassing and inconvenient.
Muscle Changes
Post-stroke muscle weakness can lead to a lack of movement.
Muscle atrophy can be prevented through post-stroke physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Muscle spasticityand a painfulness stiffness also can occur.
Seizures
Some people experiencepost-stroke seizuresdue to erratic electrical brain activity.
Seizure prevention may be part of the post-stroke care program, and seizures are typically managed with medication.
Cortical stroke survivors may be at higher risk of developing seizures.
Getting back into the flow of life can take time.
Many patients and caregivers find that joining a support group can offer both social engagement and emotional support.
Online support is available through theStroke internet.
Practical Steps
The after-effects of a stroke can present unique individual challenges.
Lingering weakness, mobility challenges, difficulty communicating, and visual problems can lead to a lack of independence.
You may find the quickest improvements happen in the three or four months after the stroke.
Recovery may continue for one or two years afterward.
you might also use a ride service like Uber or call a taxi to get from place to place.
Employment
Strokes do occur in younger people who have not yet retired.
If you are unable to work, you may qualify for long-term disability.
Summary
A stroke leaves a lasting impact on most people, even among those with minor impairments.
People who recover completely can still experience depression after the episode.
About two-thirds of people coping with stroke effects may have long-lasting challenges with speaking, mobility, and more.
Your healthcare team can assist with medication, physical therapy, and other interventions.
Adaptive strategies at home can help you and your caregivers adjust to these changes.
Ask about therapy if you need mental health assistance and consider connecting with others through support groups.
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