After Stroke

After Stroke: Recovery

Any and all of the following are potential long-term effects of having a stroke:

Cognitive Problems

Cognitive Problems after a stroke can affect a persons memory and thinking. These can include issues with concentration, moving or controlling your body, confusion, difficulty recognizing things, and trouble remembering.

Physical Impacts

Physical problems after stroke can include muscle weakness, difficulty in lifting your foot, muscle stiffness, bladder and bowel problems, headaches, fatigue, and changes to taste and smell.

Emotional Changes

After a stroke, it is completely normal to experience irritability, confusion, feelings of fear and frustration, anxiety, and depression. But, many of these effects do tend to improve over time.

Additional Resources

E-Newsletter for Stroke Survivors and Caregivers

AHA Family Warmline – speak with a trained stroke specialist who can provide support, information, or just listen: 1-888-4-STROKE (1-888-478-7653)

Support Groups

The FSR has identified six behavior changes that increase your likelihood of recovering from a stroke, and decrease your chances of having another stroke

Taking Your Medications

Changing Your Diet

Dietary changes can include swapping high-calorie, processed foods for more fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Also make sure to emphasize lean proteins like beans, lentils, fish, and lean meats. Many insurance companies will cover costs for nutritionists as well to help in planning your diet.

Diet examples include:

DASH

Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes (TLC) Diet

Counseling or support groups are also great tools to use. You can speak with your doctor to see if medications or procedures are right for you.

Exercising Regularly

Keeping Your Medical Appointments

Ending Toxic Habits

Smoking and consuming alcohol can both increase your chance of a second stroke.

Quitting can be difficult, but doing so will not only reduce your chance of stroke, but also decrease your chance of other health risks. There are different methods to quitting, including nicotine replacement therapy, joining a program, or even doing it on your own. To learn more about different options available to you, visit tobaccofreeflorida.com

Attending Physical Rehab

Starting physical rehab may depend on the severity of stroke, but it is important to start as soon as possible. Physical rehab will help regain mobility, strength, and balance.

Rehabilitation can occur at an inpatient rehabilitation center, outpatient facility, or even a home-based program. It is important to consider your needs, insurance, and what is most convenient for you; make sure to talk to your healthcare team and family to choose the best option for you.

American Heart Association Toolkit

AHA Complications After a Stroke

AHA Complications After a Stroke (Spanish)

AHA Driving After Stroke

AHA Emotional Changes After Stroke

AHA, Feeling Tired After a Stroke

AHA Caregiver