STROKE OR TRANSIENT ISCHAEMIC ATTACK
What is a Stroke?
Stroke (cerebro vascular accident or CVA) is a condition in which one of the blood vessels within your brain is diseased or damaged. As a result, brain cells are deprived of oxygen and become damaged or die. Most strokes occur when a blood clot blocks one of the arteries which carry blood to the brain. However, some strokes are caused by bleeding in or around the brain.
Mini strokes (transient ischaemic attack or TIA) occur when a clot either temporarily blocks one of the arteries or partially blocks one, this results in lesser severity of symptoms which can self resolve.
Effects of a stroke or TIA can vary immensely depending on the part of the brain affected, the severity of the stroke, age and general health. Common ones include:
- Numbness or weakness down one side. This may affect an arm, leg or the whole side
- Communication problems such as difficulties with speaking, understanding or writing
- Problems with mental processes such as thinking, learning, concentrating, remembering, reasoning , mood swings and depression
- Other effects can be visual problems, swallowing difficulties, incontinence and tiredness
The main aim of treatment of stroke is to maximise recovery, offer help with lifestyle problems and reduce the chances of a further stroke. This is achieved by a combination of drugs, help from other health carers such as occupational therapists, physiotherapists and speech therapists and together with a healthy lifestyle these will help to improve well being and protect against deterioration in your symptoms
Stroke care: what to expect
It is recommended that every stroke/TIA patient is reviewed annually by a nurse with a special interest in the subject
The review will include the following:
- Ongoing education about stroke and the beneficial effects of a healthy diet and exercise
- Assessment of ongoing problems associated with stroke
- Discussion on the implications of lifestyle
- Discussion regarding the medication you will receive
- Referrals to other services if necessary (Dietician, Exercise Programme, Education Programme, Speech Therapist)
- Blood testing to measure cholesterol and other relevant results
- Recording of height and weight (BMI)
- Urine testing for protein or infection
- Blood Pressure and pulse
- Referral to GP if necessary
- Smoking status and help with stopping if required
- Information about associations which may be able to provide further assistance e.g. the stroke association
An appointment for review will be sent to stroke patients around the month of their birth. The review is covered by two appointments; the first appointment will be with the Health Care Assistant for 10mins for blood tests. The second appointment is usually one week later with a specialised Practice Nurse; this is for 30minutes for a full annual assessment.
Clinics for stroke checks are held at both Arbroath House and William Brown Centre.
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