Recovering from a stroke requires long-term intensive care. If you or a loved one has suffered a stroke, they you’ll want to be prepared for the rehabilitation process to make it easier.

Various health practitioners coordinate stroke recovery, and the treatment will depend on the severity and type of stroke. Individuals will vary as to the effects suffered. Knowing what to expect during the rehabilitation process will help you move forward towards restored function easily.

When a Stroke Strikes

The cognitive and physical injuries suffered from a stroke are a result of injury to the brain. In a stroke, blood flow to the brain is obstructed. This restricts oxygen from reaching the brain tissue, and as a result, brain cells are destroyed. Because these cells cannot repair themselves, the damage is permanent.

Physical effects include paralysis of various muscles throughout the body. In addition, cognitive abilities such as speech can be drastically affected, limiting your ability to communicate with others.

Rehabilitation Objectives

The rehabilitation of physical and cognitive loss requires a variety of health care providers including speech therapists, doctors, and occupational therapists. They all work together to coordinate a program specific to your needs and situation.

Rehabilitation will aim at reducing the injury to the brain, while enhancing your ability to recover. Given that the risk for a second stroke is inherently higher after having one, your treatment program will seek to prevent any secondary health issues from arising. Restoring your ability to manage yourself for daily living is also part of the rehabilitation program.

The treatment process will begin in the hospital as soon as possible. In home therapy and treatment will follow once you are released. This can include a combination of home and outpatient therapy.

Prevention for the Future

A major component of the rehabilitation process is the prevention of future strokes. This can be accomplished through lifestyle factors. By closely monitoring your cholesterol, blood pressure, and body weight, you will be taking the steps to reduce your risk of a second stroke.

Regular follow up appointments with your doctor will ensure that you’re making the necessary adjustments to lower your risk. A nutritional therapist can also supplement the work of occupational and speech therapists to help implement a diet that prevents future strokes.

Strokes can lead to significant permanent damage. Physical and cognitivist functions can be impaired depending on the severity of the brain damage. Rehabilitation from a stroke will address a number of areas with various health care professionals. You or your loved one will recover quicker and regain a sense of independence with the right rehabilitation program.