Living With Stroke (Living With... Series)

A self-help guide for victims of stroke and their carers. It explains what a stroke is, discusses causes and effects, suggests ways of coping and provides information on sources of further help and advice. Beginning with an explanation of what a stroke is in simple medical terms the author then gives an overview of the most common disabilities caused by strokes. The types of medical treatment administered immediately after a stroke are discussed, as is the process of recovery. Common physical effects of stroke are described, and the likelihood of natural recovery and the type of therapy used is explained. Emphasis is placed on how to cope with the physical disabilities brought on by stroke, including loss of speech, impaired vision and loss of memory. The author then describes the emotional effects of a stroke on both the sufferer and the carer. He concludes with a guide to the services available, both social and medical. The book is intended to be useful to both stroke sufferers and their carers, and to support groups and medical professionals.