How Does Stroke Affect The Human Body?

By Barb Hicks

An interrupted flow of blood to the brain results in a stroke. The brain contains certain areas that are responsible for certain body functions. An area or function of the body affected by a stroke is relative to the area of the brain which has sustained the stroke.

There are four separate lobes in the brain and each one is responsible for certain functions. When damage to the brain occurs as a result of a stroke, that function is comprised. This can be temporary or become a permanent disability.

Physical Effects:

The amount of damage incurred during a stroke is dependent upon the area of the brain affected as well as the extent of the damage. Many stroke sufferers can recover in a few days, while others may require a year or longer. The amount of damage incurred during a stroke can also be increased if a delay in treatment is experienced. Therefore, if you suspect you or someone you know is having a stroke, seek medical assistance immediately.

Effects On The Body:

Inability to speak: Or aphasia is characterized as difficulty speaking or understanding speech. This is a problem with the language center located in the left side of the brain. The good news is the right side of the brain is able to compensate for the left side of the brain.

Dysphagia: Is difficulty swallowing, which can cause nutritional deficits. This person will benefit from speech therapy sessions in which they can relearn how to swallow, as well as speak. There also exists a choking hazard, as food can be aspirated into the lungs or lodge in the throat causing severe respiratory distress.

Depression: Depression is very common after a stroke. The person may be having body image issues, as well as communication and motor movement difficulties. These life changes can easily result in depression in the stroke survivor.

Hemiplegia: Is paralysis on the left or right side of the body. The person may experience muscle spasms of the affected extremity which can be quite painful.

Recovery Care:

In general, most functionality can be restored with hard work, dedication and the assistance of specialized rehabilitation care. Physical therapy will be restored in order to restore any motor function that has been lost. This is accomplished by sending a home nurse to evaluate the needs of the particular patient. After the evaluation, the nurse will coordinate occupational, speech and physical therapists who will visit the home to administer treatment.

Rehab Therapy:

Rehabilitation is essential for the patient to regain the ability to walk, talk, regain strength in weak extremities and swallow. Most often, patients are able to recover completely and live a normal, independent life. - 29958

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