A minor stroke occurs when the blood supply in the brain is disrupted. This event prevents the brain tissue from receiving vital oxygen and nutrients. Within a few minutes of a stroke, brain cells start to die, which can affect a patient's physical mobility and speech skills.
Risk factors for stroke include family history, diabetes, smoking, cardiovascular disease, birth control use, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Fortunately, fewer Americans are dying than 30 years ago, according to MayoClinic.com, and today people have many treatment options.
Instructions
1. Consider Physical and Speech Therapy. Time is of the essence in the treatment of and recovery from stroke. The longer this "brain attack" goes untreated, the greater the potential damage and the more difficult the recovery, says MayoClinic.com.
The goal of long-term treatment for minor stroke is to restore as much function as possible and prevent future strokes, according to the U.S. Library of Medicine. This can be accomplished through physical therapy, which teaches the patient exercises to restore function to the body. Speech therapy can help stroke patients relearn speech skills and regain independent speech.
2. Understand Medications for Stroke Patients. If the stoke occurred because of a blood clot, the patient may be prescribed blood thinners, such as warfarin or heparin, to minimize the chances of future strokes. Patients with high blood pressure may be given medications to reduce . Intense headaches resulting from stoke may be treated with painkillers, according to the U.S. Library of Medicine.
For stoke patients with swallowing difficulties, nutrients will be provide through an intravenous or feeding tube, until the patient is able to restore swallowing functions (which can be accomplished through physical therapy activities).
3. Consider Diet Changes. According to the National Stroke Association, dietary changes are important in preventing another stroke. Talk with your doctor about a low-fat, low-cholesterol and reduced-salt diet.
Some stroke survivors lose their sense of taste, which makes food unappealing. Family members should monitor eating habits to ensure meals aren't skipped. Also, there are special utensils made for the stroke survivor that makes eating easier.
4. Manage Bed Sores. While patients are regaining their mobility, a lot of time is spent in beds and wheel chairs. This increases the risk for bed sores, which typically appear on the buttocks, elbows or heels. Caregivers can help prevent sores by changing bed positions often and propping pillows under the knees to discourage bed sores from appearing on the heels.
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