Types of Stroke and Paralysis
A stroke is a medical emergency that happens when an interruption or reduction of blood supply prevents brain tissues from receiving the needed oxygen and nutrients. When this occurs, brain cells will die in minutes.
Because a stroke is an acute illness that poses a risk to an individual’s life or long term health, it requires prompt treatment to reduce brain damage and other complications.
There are two main types of stroke:
1. Ischemic stroke – occurs due to a clot or obstruction in the blood vessel that supplies blood to the brain or spinal cord.
A type of Ischemic stroke, the Trans Ischemic Attack, resolves within 24 hours and can indicate that a stroke can follow. It is also called a “mini-stroke”.
2. Hemorrhagic stroke – when a blood vessel bursts and bleeds into the brain or spinal cord. It is commonly caused by aneurysms, hypertension, bleeding disorders, or arteriovenous malformation.
A common disability that results from stroke is paralysis. It is a condition when a muscle or a group of muscles cannot function. Muscle movement is triggered by the messages sent from the brain. When a stroke occurs, the exchange of messages between the brain and the muscles gets affected, resulting in a medical emergency called stroke paralysis.
In many instances, stroke paralysis affects the opposite side of the damaged brain, although any body part can be affected. Fortunately, there are medications, stroke recovery exercises and paralysis physiotherapy that can help the patient recuperate from the condition and they can regain body movements.
The management and treatment of stroke paralysis are done in a paralysis recovery centre. While permanent paralysis cannot be cured, there are rehabilitative services such as physical, occupational and speech therapies that can help patients with all paralysis live an independent and good quality of life. Exercises are provided to them, as well as adaptive and assistive devices, to improve their function.
Stroke is the principal cause of disability in most adult patients, and it is disastrous both for the patient itself and the family. However, therapies are available that can help people rehabilitate after a stroke. The Mission Walk Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre can take your loved ones in and provide the care they need.
Our rehab services mainly involve physiotherapy, which helps the patient relearn simple motor skills such as lying down, sitting, standing, walking, and switching between various types of movement. Our occupational therapy promotes exercises and training to help patients learn their everyday activities, including eating, drinking, and swallowing. They can also dress, bathe, use the toilet, cook, read and write.
Speech therapy for stroke patients can help them communicate, including relearning to speak and language skills.
Paralysis is managed and treated in a stroke and paralysis rehab centre. The above-mentioned therapies are often accompanied by the following.
- Adaptive equipment so you can feed yourself and drive
- Assistive equipment such as scooters, crutches and wheelchairs
- Orthotic (foot support)/prosthetic devices like braces
- Voice-activated technology for computers, phones, and lighting systems
Recovery time after a stroke is not the same for every patient; some may take weeks or months, while others may take many years. Some people can quickly recover, but others may need long term care for stroke patients. When your loved one needs to care for a long time, there are options to choose from. These are:
1. Private home care – this is self-explanatory
2. Board and care home – is a residential group home meant for senior adults and people with the same condition.
3. Assisted living – is for patients who cannot return home from a clinic or hospital because their needed care is more than what others can provide.
4. Nursing home – is an excellent option for patients with multiple disabilities who need nursing care 24/7.
Having a family member suffer from a stroke can be highly damaging and an overwhelming experience. If you are someone, who is supporting a stroke patient, bear in mind that you have options, but you need to plan very carefully. It would be best if you also had a lot of patience as you go through this journey.
Never lose faith that your loved one will be better with a show of support and compassion.
Call us at 91 91773 00194 or get in touch through our email address rehab@missionwalk.in if you need help with a stroke patient.
