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| www.strokecamp.org |
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| http://www.unitedstrokealliance.org/ |
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Stroke Support Group Finder Link
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The following is from the fall Stroke Connection Magazine
http://strokeconnection.strokeassociation.org
COMMON PHYSICAL CHANGES AFTER A STROKE
Physical changes that follow a stroke are the result of injury to the brain and may include one or more effects.
Weakness or paralysis on one side of the body
If the stroke occurs on the brain’s right side, the left side of the body and face will be affected. It’s the opposite for a stroke that occurs on the left side of the brain.
Fatigue
After a stroke, it’s common to feel tired at some point. This is known as fatigue. Fatigue often starts to lessen a few months after the stroke. But for some people, tiredness may continue for years. If you’re experiencing poststroke fatigue, talk to your health care team about ways to reduce it.
Spasticity
When you try to move a limb, the muscles contract (shorten or flex). This creates stiffness and tightness, which is referred to as “spasticity.” Spasticity also causes the tendons and soft tissue around the muscle to become tight or stiff. This makes stretching the muscle much more difficult. If not treated, the muscle can freeze into an abnormal and often painful position. If you have spasticity, talk to your doctor about the best treatments for you. Physical therapy and medications can help.
Seizures
Seizures are brain malfunctions that alter a person’s awareness. A seizure may last only a few seconds or minutes. It may trigger involuntary body movements, strange sensations or blackouts. Studies vary greatly about how often seizures happen after stroke. Seizures are painless. But they can be upsetting and disorienting. Often, seizures can be treated with medications. If you think you may have had a seizure, let your health care team know.
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At United Stroke Alliance we urge you to Be-Faster!
If you have detected the following stroke symptoms, don't wait.
BE-FASTER!
Don't wait, be Be-Faster to save someone's life. Awareness is critical! What if you could help save your life or someone else’s by knowing the signs of stroke? Once a stroke begins to present itself, BE-FASTER and dial 911 immediately - the more time that is wasted, the more functioning you could lose as a result – up to 1,900,000 brain cells a minute or worse - death. Act FAST when stroke strikes. Be aware of the signs of a stroke and how to act:
BALANCE
Sudden loss of balance
EYES
Sudden blurry or loss of vision
FACE
Sudden numbness, one side drooping - can you smile?
ARMS
Sudden weakness in arms - can you raise both?
SPEECH
Slurred or mumbling speech
TIME
CALL 911 NOW
EMERGENCY
ROOM
Get to the ER by ambulance they know what to do FASTER!