The rehabilitation process

Whenever the blood supply is cut off from a part of the body, the body tries to restore the circulation itself. Small, neighbouring blood vessels get larger and take over the work of the damaged ones. In this way, part of the body affected from the stroke may eventually improve or even return to normal. This process can be encouraged by additional therapies suggested by the doctor.
Not all patients recover spontaneously. Often old skills are lost and new ones need to be taught. Rehabilitation must begin as soon as possible after the stroke.
The goal of rehabilitation should be for the person who has had the stroke to be as independent and productive as soon as possible (given the limitations that have resulted from the stroke). Doctors and hospital workers are not the only ones who play a role in the rehabilitation process - the support of the family is essential.

How do I avoid another stroke?

Some people are born with a greater risk of stroke, but others simply increase their risk through poor lifestyle. To reduce the chances of a stroke, make the necessary lifestyle changes and follow medical advice:

• Control blood pressure - the most important step is to have your blood pressure measured regularly
• Lose weight - if overweight
• Do not smoke
• Control high blood cholesterol
• If you consume alcohol, do so in moderation (a maximum of 2 drinks for women and 3 for men, per day). One drink is equal to 340ml beer, 120ml of wine or 25ml of spirits
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet low in saturated fat
• Do regular, physical exercise (minimum of 30 minutes, 5 times a week)

Some forms of heart disease also increase the risk for stroke and should be controlled under medical guidance. Surgery, drugs, acute hospital care and the rehabilitation of a stroke patient will help prevent further strokes.  

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