How Does Stroke Affect Our Body Function?

Stroke (cerebrovascular Accident, CVA), is marked by ineffective blood flow to the brain. The result is cell death, brain damage, and possibility of becoming permanently disabled. Each area of the brain controls certain functions in the body. Loss of function occurs relative to the area of the brain that sustained the CVA.



There are four lobes to the brain, and each has it's own specific function. When brain damage occurs, the function of that area is lost. Depending on the location and severity, the effects can be temporary, or result in severe disability.



Physical Effects:



The effects of stroke are different in each person. Some people recover in a few days, while others may take a year or more, depending on the damage and location of the infarct. Additionally, the amount of time from stroke onset to medical treatment will have an effect on the body, such as paralysis or weakness on one side of the body. Get help immediately if you or any one near you may be having a stroke.



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 he 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 sever 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:



Specialty care is available for those suffering the effects of stroke. Most, function can be restored with hard work and dedication during the rehabilitation phase. The person will need physical therapy to help restore motor function. This can be accomplished by utilizing the services of a home health agency who will send a nurse into the home for assessment of particular needs. The nurse will then coordinate the services of physical, occupational, and speech therapists, who will also visit the home to administer their treatment specialty.



Rehab Therapy:



Rehabilitation is beneficial and desirable for those suffering the effects of a stroke. With rehab, patients are able to regain strength in weak extremities, learn to walk, talk, and swallow. Many patients are able to recover fully through rehab and become independent again in most cases.



Barb Hicks is a licensed registered nurse and featured health writer on Clivir.com where she shares her knowledge about Stroke Recovery Diet and Physical Effects of Stroke.