A severe stroke can have a significant impact on a person’s life and abilities. Strokes take more than 140,000 lives each year and are one of the leading causes of death in the US. Stroke survivors have to deal with life-long consequences. Around 80% of patients survive a stroke, and many of them face severe disabilities.
However, there’s no reason to give up hope. It is possible to lead a fulfilling life after a stroke. You need the right treatment, therapy, and support from medical professionals like the ones at Radar Medical, the best neurology clinic in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Consequences of a Stroke
The brain is a mysterious organ, and a stroke causes extensive damage to it. It can impact different areas of the brain in different patients, which is why the symptoms vary so much. Here’s a look at how a stroke can affect people:
- Patients can have difficulty speaking and problems with their language skills.
- Stroke survivors also experience some vision problems.
- They struggle to maintain their balance and have mobility issues.
- Some patients find it difficult to swallow food.
- Many patients are partially paralyzed.
These are some of the most common disabilities that stroke survivors endure. An excellent medical facility like Radar Medical will start addressing the symptoms immediately after the patient is stable and can tolerate therapy.
Accepting the Change
A stroke can alter a person’s quality of life entirely, and most patients find it difficult to accept this change. Patients often feel discouraged and overwhelmed by the day-to-day struggle with simple tasks like drinking water or walking to the bathroom. Therapy is more effective if the patients accept the change and commit to improving the quality of their life.
Stroke survivors often have to deal with fatigue, memory impairments, sleep issues or disorders, depression, bladder or bowel incontinence. They also have to deal with a lack of mobility and an inability to communicate with their caregivers.
Starting Treatment Early
Rehabilitation is possible, but it must happen within the first 3 to 6 months. Stroke survivors show the most improvement if the therapy starts as soon as they’re stable. Every patient requires an individualized treatment plan based on their disability. For example, a patient struggling with speech and communication requires a speech therapist. A patient who has a physical disability needs a physical therapist.
Depending on the patient’s condition, Dr. Shah may also refer the patient to a psychologist for therapy. Stroke survivors are prone to depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. The doctor will address ensure these problems, along with physical disabilities. The mind and body are interconnected. The body’s recovery can slow down if the patient isn’t in the right state of mind.
Consistent support from family members and therapists can help the patient regain their determination to adjust to the change. At our Las Vegas neurology clinic, we firmly believe that stroke patients need regular therapy and exercise to recover faster and maintain their quality of life.
Medical Consultation After a Stroke
When you consult Dr. Russell Shah, the best neurologist in Las Vegas, he will have a detailed discussion with you to understand your medical history and symptoms. He will then conduct a physical exam. As part of this examination, the doctor may check your:
- Reflexes
- Coordination
- Speech
- Strength
- Mental status
- Vision
- Sensation (the ability to feel things)
People struggling to recover from a stroke and dealing with other related ailments can come to Radar Medical for the best diagnosis, advice, and treatment. The medical team at Radar Medical the Best Neurology Clinic in Las Vegas led by Dr. Shah will help you get through this difficult adjustment period.