language skills or perhaps adapt to using a cane or devices to assist you when you need to do self-care or bathing.
Pain Management
If you are looking for ways to manage pain such as headaches, shoulder pain, tingling and burning within the body just remember that these issues will go away in time and may take up to six months to do so. Just make sure you inform your doctors about the type of pain you are experiencing and you may be prescribed medications or if you are holistic you can explore mind, and body exercises or visit a herb or natural grocer within your area to assist you with pain management.
Memory Challenges
Your memory may not be as sharp as it used to be after surviving a stroke, but don’t beat yourself up about it. Being able to recall certain details about what you ate for breakfast or the names of your family members can be difficult after a stroke but have patience with others and yourself. Until you get stronger, get a notebook and write down important things, use sticky tabs, use a planner and get into the habit of putting things away in the same place to make it easier for you to locate things later.
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Cognitive Issues
Having a stroke can put you literally on an emotional roller coaster and you may feel as if you’re not yourself. This is where your support team comes into play. Find someone you can trust to discuss important matters or assist you with shopping or travel until you’re able to make the right choices for yourself.
Personality Changes
Do you find yourself acting the opposite of how you may feel? For example, you may cry instead of laughing or say something offensive to someone but may not realize it. These changes in your behavior are all normal for someone who has experienced a stroke. It will take time, patience and support from your team to help you get back on track. If you find yourself getting overwhelmed, take a break, regroup and ask for help. Don’t rush your healing.
Caregiver/Self-Care Changes
It’s not easy being a caregiver or taking the “backseat” temporarily while someone does your basic needs. But just remember this is just temporal until your loved one gets stronger. While you are adjusting to the new roles make sure you give yourself and others more patience and kindness.
Before you get overwhelmed, take a break and seek help from a support buddy to help assist you with the daily routines, doctor visits and more. Remember you will get better and as time goes on, the challenges will no longer be a challenge.
The road to recovery after surviving a stroke isn’t easy but things will get better in time.