Physical and cognitive problems are common after a stroke. They interfere with your daily life. The level of disturbance is determined by the severity and location of the stroke, as well as time before medical aid could be provided. The most common problems after a stroke include:
Physical impairments
- (Partial) loss of vision, or double vision
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Headaches
- Changes in the way things are seen or felt (perceptual problems)
- Trouble swallowing
- Incontinence
- Weakness or lack of movement (paralysis) in legs or arms
- Tiredness or fatigue
Cognitive impairments
- Memory problems
- Attention and concentration problems
- Problem-solving and decision-making issues
- Calculation problems
- Structuring problems (organising and planning)
- Slower processing of information
- Inflexible thinking