Stroke - the after effects

Stroke is the interruption of blood to the brain. The most common type of stroke is ischaemic, caused by a blood clot blocking an artery or vessel. The brain cells in the immediate area are permanently damaged and those in the surrounding areas are affected by the reduced blood flow. Cerebral haemorrhage where a blood vessel within the brain ruptures also causes a stroke, known as a haemorrhagic stroke.

Once brain cells are permanently damaged, their functions stop with them. The functions that are lost depend on which areas of the brain were affected by the stroke and how severely.

A person who suffers from a small stroke may recover with only minor disabilities, while a major stroke can permanently disable or even cause death. Many survivors also have emotional changes, with a tendency to laugh or cry for no apparent reason and then to stop just as suddenly.

A window of opportunity

Brain cells (neurones) lack the ability to regenerate. When brain cells in the immediate area are starved of oxygen and nutrients by a stroke, they quickly die. Brain cells in the surrounding areas are then at dire risk. If medical treatment is prompt, there is every chance that these compromised brain cells can be saved, minimising the damage.

If a stroke is suspected, it is very important to seek medical help immediately. It can mean the difference between life and death, or minor versus major disabilities.

Different parts of the brain

The brain can be considered as a four-part organ, which includes the right and left hemispheres, the cerebellum and the brain stem. A stroke has different effects, depending on which part of the brain is targeted during the attack.

The right hemisphere

Some of the major functions of the right hemisphere include perception and control of the left side of the body. A stroke which affects the right hemisphere can cause many changes, including:

• The inability to judge distances, which can lead to falls or loss of hand-to-eye coordination
• Short-term memory loss
• Neglecting or ignoring anything situated to the left of the body
• Impulsive behaviour
• Paralysis of the left side of the body (‘left hemiplegia’).

The left hemisphere

Some of the major functions of the left hemisphere include speech and control of the right side of the body. A stroke affecting the left hemisphere can cause many changes, including:

• Paralysis of the right side of the body (‘right hemiplegia’)
• Various problems with speech and communication
• Short-term memory loss.

The cerebellum

Some of the major functions of the cerebellum include coordination and balance. A stroke affecting the cerebellum can cause many changes, including:

• Dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of coordination
• A tendency to unbalance and fall
• Slurred speech.

The brain stem

Some of the major functions of the brain stem include breathing, heart rate and blood pressure. A stroke that affects the brain stem can cause many changes, including:

• Complete paralysis
• Coma
• Double vision
• Swallowing difficulties
• Death.

Living with the effects of stroke

In some cases, the effects of a small stroke can be overcome and the person can live an almost completely normal life. In other cases, the disabilities are severe and permanent. Support and understanding from family and friends, plus intensive rehabilitation from health care professionals, can always improve a stroke survivor’s quality of life.

Some of the health care professionals who can assist include:

• Speech therapists – to maintain or improve speech and communication and assess swallowing difficulties.
• Occupational therapists – to teach coping strategies and new skills, and help adapt the family home to better cater for the needs of the stroke survivor.
• Physical therapists – to maintain or improve the movement and functioning of the body.

Where to get help

• Your doctor
• Your specialist
• Speech therapist
• Occupational therapist
• Physical therapist
• In an emergency, call triple zero (000).

Things to remember

• A stroke has different effects, depending on which part of the brain is targeted during the attack.
• If a stroke is suspected, it is imperative that medical help is sought immediately.
• Health care professionals who can help improve a stroke survivor’s quality of life include speech, occupational and physical therapists.

You might also be interested in:

• Stroke - signs and symptoms.
  
• Stroke - the risk factors.
  
• Stroke and high blood pressure.
  
• Stroke and migraine.
  
• Stroke can occur in children.
  
• Stroke is a brain attack.
  
• Stroke prevention.
  
• Stroke prevention for high risk groups.
  
• Transient ischaemic attack.
  

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Last reviewed: November 2011

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A stroke is caused by either the blockage or rupture of a blood vessel within the brain or a rupture of a blood vessel surrounding the brain. A person who suffers from a small stroke may recover, while a larger stroke can lead to permanent disabilities. Many survivors also have emotional changes after a stroke.

Content on this website is provided for education and information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your qualified health professional. Content has been prepared for Victorian residence and wider Australian audiences, and was accurate at the time of publication. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users are urged to always seek advice from a qualified health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.

For the latest updates and more information, visit www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au

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