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The New Stroke Paradigm Empowerment of individuals and |
For millennia, stroke was a
mystery, was called “apoplexy” (a sudden blow from the gods) and nothing
could be done about it. Even in the 20th century, there were limits. The
injury could not be arrested and it was believed that recovery only occurred
during the first months after onset.
Today, the reality is much different. Primary and
comprehensive stroke centers restore circulation to the brain with the
medication t-PA, blood flow restoration
devices and other comprehensive care.
Also, progress in rehabilitation has been made with new
understanding and targeted application of neurological return and
plasticity. Acute and subacute rehabilitation services are provided widely.
These services are provided by stroke professionals. A
next advance should focus on what individuals, patients, survivors and
families can do for themselves to prevent, respond to and recover from
stroke.
For example, over 80% of strokes can be prevented by
healthy lifestyle, risk factor mitigation and proactive medical care.
Citizens who practice self-care have fewer strokes and other illness.
Further, to treat patients, stroke centers depend on
prompt action by citizens. Bystanders must immediately recognize stroke
signs and symptoms, call 911 and make sure that patients are taken to a
stroke center. Time is brain
In contrast, contrary to old beliefs, there is not a
time limit on stroke recovery. Those who learn and practice the steps and
skills of recovery can make continuous progress in physical, psychological
and social functioning.
In the new stroke paradigm, individuals and families
are empowered, with guidance and support, to take actions in prevention,
emergency response and recovery that no one else can do for them.
We have to do it ourselves, but we
don’t have to do it alone.