Strokes

Effects of Strokes

Each stroke is different and each person that experiences a stroke is affected differently. Some stroke survivors experience mild symptoms, while other face severe and lasting damage. Once the stroke occurs, the brain immediately undergoes changes. Without the blood supply which provides the brain with nutrients and oxygen, the brain cells are damaged and can die. Once dead, the cells cannot return to life, but the surrounding areas can recover and take over or substitute some of the lost functions. Usually, the recovery process happens in the first few months that follows the stoke, but in some cases can continue for several years.

A stroke in the right hemisphere can cause:

• Paralysis in the left side of the body.
• Problems judging distance. The person might have difficulties guiding their hands to pick-up or maneuver objects.
• Spatial and perceptual impaired abilities.
• Behavioral problems. The person might act impulsively and might try to perform certain tasks as they did before their stroke.
• Impaired vision. The person has difficulties seeing objects in the left side of the visual field.
• Short-term memory loss. The person cannot remember events from earlier that day, but can clearly remember events from years ago.

A stroke in the left hemisphere can cause:

• Paralysis in the right side of the body.
• Speech and language problems. The person can have problems communicating because they either have difficulties understanding the language, or expressing themselves. Impaired writing and reading abilities are also common in stroke patients.
• Slow and cautious behavior. The person might need guidance with frequent instructions and feedback in order to complete tasks.
• Memory problems. The person might experience difficulties remembering recent events or learning new tasks or things.

A stroke in the cerebellum can cause:

• Abnormal reflexes of the head and upper body.
• Balance problems.
• Dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.

A stroke in the brain stem can cause:

• Paralysis or inability of moving or feeling one or both sides of the body.

Article by Kona Vishnu, MS
Medical Writer,
OmniMedicalSearch.com
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