The Diverse Effects of Stroke
Life can change drastically, but still be good. Bill, 55-year-old stroke survivor
Effects of a stroke are as diverse as the many people in BC who’ve survived them (remember – there is life after stroke!)
A stroke occurs when brain cells don’t get the oxygen they need due to a blockage in a blood vessel or bleeding in the brain. Effects depend on the severity of the stroke and on the area of the brain in which it occurred.
Some of the effects of stroke are:
Physical
Paralysis on part or one side of the body
Loss of feeling or numbness on part or one side of the body
Loss of awareness on part or one side of the body
Problems moving (walking, sitting, bathing, etc.)
Pain
Fatigue
Loss of Vision
Cognitive
Incapacity to recognize objects or understand their use
Difficulty judging distances, shapes and directions
Impaired memory
Difficulty learning
Slow, cautious behaviour
Difficulty planning, organizing and starting tasks
Difficulty assessing abilities and limitations
Problems with body image
Communication
Inability to use or understand words (aphasia)
Loss of writing abilities
Slurred speech
Difficulty in absorbing information
Emotional
Loss of emotional control
Depression
Anxiety
Anger
Frustration
Loss of self-esteem
Personal & Social
Awkwardness
Inappropriate behaviour
Isolation
Family breakdowns
Loss of privacy
Change in roles
Challenges with relationships
Work and career issues
Financial concerns
Other Resources
Learn more about stroke recovery by downloading our guides and checking out our videos.
For Caregivers
Family Caregivers of BC provides a vast amount of education, support, and links to more help.