International Stroke Day 2023
Not much has changed since last year for the better
According to the WHO, STROKE still leads the pack, cycling closely behind HEART ATTACK, both racing at alarming speeds.
But let's go over this once more. If this is your first stop in search of more information, dive right in.
The unpredictable nature of strokes is concerning. It's a condition you can't really brace for. One moment you're fine, the next, it's a total car crash—unexpected and jarring. Imagine pressing into a balloon at a party; whether you apply gentle or intense pressure, whether your nails are sharp or neatly trimmed, whether you're wearing a simple ring or one adorned with diamonds, it'll eventually pop if you play long enough. But it doesn't have to, just check your hands and be aware what you doing with it.
The stats are unsettling; there's a 1 in 4 chance of experiencing a stroke. However, you can take steps to reduce these odds. By addressing risk factors like hypertension, a poor diet, smoking, and sedentary habits, you'll not only lower your stroke risk but also the chances of developing other health issues like cancer, heart attacks, diabetes, and more. A handy tool like the STROKE RISKOMETER, available for iPhone and Android, can help you gauge your risk.
Should a stroke occur, remember, that you're not isolated in this journey. Many organizations stand ready to assist.
But time is of the essence. I've seen numerous patients wait too long for help, becoming "too unwell" or "too disabled" for the system to aid them effectively. Even though recovery is always possible, the journey might take considerably longer if initiated late (but it's never too late).
Consistency and quality in care are paramount. From our side, we must ensure we're aligned when selecting the best recommendations, applying them in real-world situations, and monitoring our progress. Essentially, it's about refining our approach continuously towards your recovery.
For those particularly interested in the aftermath, let's delve into stroke rehabilitation.
Post-stroke, the path to recovery often involves extensive rehabilitation. The goal? Restoring as much independence as possible and enhancing overall life quality.
Rehabilitation isn't a short-term solution; it can extend for days, weeks, or even years after the event. The good news is that rehab can adapt to fit the patient's needs, whether in specialized facilities, community centers, hospitals, day programs, or the comfort of one's home.
Practical Insights on Stroke Rehab:
Here are some crucial pointers:
After a stroke, undergo a functional assessment to determine your rehab needs, leading to a tailored rehabilitation plan.
If hospitalized for post-stroke rehab, a specialized stroke rehabilitation unit is optimal.
Therapy should be rigorous, pushing patients to acquire essential skills.
Adaptive training techniques, employing specialized devices, can bolster task performance.
Techniques and exercises are available for spasticity and contractures. Note: routine splinting might not be advised.
Family and caregivers play a pivotal role, especially in safeguarding the affected side and supporting rehab.
Awareness and precautions are vital due to an elevated fall risk post-stroke.
Persistent pain, especially on the affected side, should be addressed.
Post-stroke communication challenges should be identified and tackled.
For aphasia sufferers, methods like ongoing family conversations and non-verbal strategies can help, and consulting a speech-language pathologist can be transformative.
Your Post-Stroke Assessment Checklist is like a diamond - Diamonds are forever, agent 007:
Re-acclimating to daily life post-stroke can be daunting. This checklist is designed to assist in identifying areas where you may need supplementary guidance.
Ensure you're adhering to the best practices with the following guidelines:
🔹 Preventing Another Stroke
- Have you been given advice about lifestyle changes or medications since your stroke to prevent another one?
If NO, consider talking to your Primary Care Team for a risk factor assessment.
🔹 Self-Care & Daily Activities
- Finding it harder to care for yourself, like dressing or washing?
- Struggling with preparing meals or drinks?
Are you having trouble getting outside?
If YES to any, the Community Stroke Team or a therapist like an OT or PT might be the people to talk to.
🔹 Mobility & Movement
- Facing difficulties moving safely, like getting out of bed or shifting to a chair?
- Still receiving rehabilitation therapy?
* If NO to therapy, check in with the Community Stroke Team.
* If YES, make a note in your patient record for your next assessment.
🔹 Physical Changes
- Noticed increased stiffness in your limbs?
- Is this affecting your daily tasks?
* If YES, a physician specializing in post-stroke spasticity would be a great resource.
- Experiencing any new pain?
* Consider consulting a physician knowledgeable in post-stroke pain.
🔹 Bladder & Bowel Control
- Having challenges controlling your bladder or bowels?
* A Community Continence Adviser or equivalent can help.
🔹 Communication
- Finding it tougher to communicate?
* A specialist Speech and Language Therapist might be the way to go.
🔹 Mood & Emotions
- Feeling more anxious or down lately?
* A Primary Care Clinician who focuses on post-stroke mood changes can offer guidance.
🔹 Cognition & Memory
- Experiencing difficulties with thinking, concentrating, or remembering?
- Is this affecting your daily activities?
* If YES, a clinician who specializes in post-stroke cognition can help.
🔹 Personal Interests & Relationships
- Struggling with hobbies, work, or personal relationships?
* A stroke support organization could be beneficial.
- Has your relationship with your family become strained?
If YES, try to have your next Primary Care visit with a family member. Alternatively, organizations like The Stroke Association can provide support.
Remember, you're not in this alone. It's okay to reach out when you need support or advice. Take it one step at a time and know that we're here to help you through every part of your post-stroke journey.
Pawel Ciecierski - neuro-physiotherapist
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