By Dr Rahul Kulkarni
A stroke is a life-altering event that affects millions of people worldwide. It affects not only the individual who experiences it but also their family and loved ones. India is no exception to this global health concern. Strokes are often associated with a higher mortality rate in India than in many other countries, primarily due to delayed or inadequate medical attention. This translates to an awareness gap about stroke and its symptoms, and thus, a lack of preparedness when stroke occurs.
A survey conducted by IPSOS, a Paris-based multinational market research and consulting firm, in 2022, revealed that less than one in four Indians are aware of brain stroke symptoms. Boehringer Ingelheim India, a pharmaceutical company, released the findings of this national survey on the state of stroke ahead of World Brain Day that year.
Physical and emotional challenges faced by stroke survivors
Stroke survivors continue to grapple with the consequences of the condition. This encompasses a range of physical disabilities such as paralysis, weakness, and loss of motor skills, as well as cognitive and emotional changes, including depression and anxiety. Survivors often experience communication difficulties, memory problems, and impaired thinking.
The physical and emotional changes that follow, can be challenging. Survivors often struggle with feelings of frustration, helplessness, and grief over their lost abilities. Family members and caregivers also face the emotional burden of supporting their loved ones through these changes. Understanding and coping with these changes is crucial.
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How stroke survivors can deal with the condition’s aftermath and conquer struggles
Stroke survivors can seek professional help from stroke support groups and available resources. These groups provide a platform for individuals to share experiences, offer emotional support, and exchange practical advice. They also offer valuable information on local rehabilitation centres, programs, grants, or resources available to help cover the costs associated with stroke recovery, and other initiatives, campaigns, or activities aimed at raising awareness about stroke-related issues.
Some organisations like Patients Engage provide valuable communities like the Stroke Rehab and Recovery community, dedicated to offering support and resources for stroke survivors on their journey to rehabilitation and recovery.
Post-stroke rehabilitation is also a critical component of the recovery process. The extent and type of rehabilitation required can vary widely based on the severity and location (within the brain) of the stroke.
Physical therapy is often a crucial part of stroke recovery. It focuses on regaining motor skills, improving balance, and increasing strength.
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Occupational therapy helps stroke survivors relearn essential daily activities such as dressing, cooking, and bathing. Speech therapy may be necessary for those who experience speech or language difficulties. These may manifest as problems with articulation, pronunciation, language comprehension, or challenges in conveying thoughts and ideas coherently. Stuttering, voice disorders, aphasia (language impairment often caused by brain injury or stroke), and other communication disorders are also part of this.
The duration of rehabilitation varies from person to person, but one thing is clear - consistency and patience are key. Progress may be slow, but even small improvements can make a big difference in the quality of life for stroke survivors. Rehabilitation centres play a pivotal role in guiding individuals through this arduous journey.
Stroke survivors should discover a new purpose and meaning to their life
Life after a stroke is not solely about recovering lost abilities but also about discovering new purpose and meaning. Many stroke survivors find renewed determination to pursue new hobbies, engage in community service to support other survivors, or simply savour the beauty of everyday life in a way they never did before. Survivors can also try setting realistic goals, adapting to the living environment to accommodate physical limitations, and using assistive devices to aid mobility. Additionally, a balanced diet and regular exercise can help maintain physical and mental health, while managing medications as prescribed is crucial for preventing recurrent strokes.
It is a difficult journey, but with patience, determination, and the right approach, it can lead one to regain independence and improve the quality of life after a stroke.
While stroke prevention is essential, raising awareness about life after stroke is equally vital. The more people understand the challenges and possibilities of life after a stroke, the better equipped they will be to support their loved ones or seek help themselves when the need arises.
(The author is the HOD, Neurology, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, Pune).
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