Understanding Fatigue after a Stroke
One common symptom reported by individuals who have experienced a stroke is severe fatigue. While the exact reason behind this lethargy is still unknown, experts speculate that it may be a result of the body and brain working harder to recover from the physical and mental impact of the stroke. Unfortunately, fatigue often continues to affect stroke survivors long after the initial event.
Loss of Swallowing Reflex
When a person is on the verge of experiencing a stroke, they may notice a decrease or complete loss of their swallowing reflex. This can result in feelings of gagging and difficulty swallowing, a condition known as dysphagia. Research has shown that up to 65% of stroke patients exhibit signs of dysphagia. In order to assess the severity of the problem, doctors typically conduct a swallow test. Following a stroke, some individuals may require therapy with a speech pathologist to address their swallowing difficulties. Fortunately, dysphagia after a stroke is often temporary and tends to improve over time.