A stroke strikes on the average every 5 minutes, with a 100,000 people having strokes each year. (Stroke statistics, Stroke association) So, what are strokes? Can we prevent a stroke? What does life look like after a stroke?
What are strokes?
A stroke occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. This starves the brain of oxygen, with devastating consequences. Stroke is the fourth biggest killer in the UK, and a leading cause of disability.
There are two types of stroke:
Ischaemic strokes are caused by a blockage (usually a blood clot) cutting off the blood supply to the brain. About 85% of strokes are ischaemic.
Haemorrhagic strokes are caused by a blood vessel bursting in the brain.
A stroke is a medical emergency. It is vital that anyone with a suspected stroke receives medical attention as quickly as possible.
Public awareness of the FAST test can help people to identify the signs of stroke and call 999 as quickly as possible.
Face: has their face fallen on one side? Can they smile?
Arms: can they raise both arms and keep them there?
Speech: is their speech slurred?
Time to call 999 if you see any single one of these signs of stroke.
Recognising these signs quickly can make a difference with the outcome of the stroke.
Preventing a stroke
Although we can’t necessarily prevent a stroke, we can take the below steps to help reduce the chance of strokes:
· Healthy eating – A good diet of fruit and vegetables (5 a day) low fat, high fibre and low in salt. These food groups can help reduce cholesterol and blood pressure.
· Exercising – regular exercise can help reduce your cholesterol and blood pressure, 150 minutes a week of moderate exercise is recommended.
· Stop smoking – Smoking increases your chances of a stroke as it narrows your arteries. Quitting gives you a number of health benefits.
· Cut down on alcohol – Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to high blood pressure, the recommended limits per week are 14 units a week spread over 3 or more days.
Life after a stroke
Although some people recover fully from a stroke, many people do need support to regain as much independence as possible. (NHS)
Below is a link to the NHS website, with helpful information and a personal story from Jim about life after a stroke.
Professionals available to help
Physical Therapy will help to regain strength, balance and coordination
Occupational therapy will help with fine motor skills, such as using a knife and fork, or buttoning a shirt.
Speech Therapy will help with speech, language and swallowing.
Psychologist or mental health counsellor will help with anxiety, sadness or depression for not only the stroke person but their family.
Doctors will try and prevent another stroke, by giving advise on health and lifestyle, or prescribing medication
Useful Links
How can we help?
Independent Living is a small, respectful and responsive home care service provider delivering quality, person-centred care in the local area. we believe every individual should have the option to stay at home in a familiar environment if they so wish, no matter their health condition or lifestyle needs. We will strive to maintain your everyday routines, hobbies and interests essential for good mental health and wellbeing.
We aim to make a positive impact on those we support, enhancing their lives. Our highly trained staff provide non-pressurised support via visits which last a minimum of one-hour. This ensures that we can provide quality care without the need to rush, enabling Care Givers to spend that little bit of extra time with you.
For more information on how we could support you or your loved one, contact us on 01332 799292 or alternatively send us an email info@independentliving-care.co.uk
