Can My Mother Fully Recover from Stroke-Related Weakness?

Can one regain their previous health?

My mother recently experienced a minor stroke, which left her weak and unable to walk.
She was urgently taken to the hospital for treatment and was hospitalized for a period during which she had daily episodes.
After some time, she began to recover, but each episode did not receive any specific intervention from the doctors.
Recently discharged, I consulted Dr.
Jiang regarding the following concerns about my mother:
1.
Why does she feel that her leg strength is not as good as before, and why is her overall physical strength weaker than it used to be?
2.
With time, will she regain her previous leg strength and physical condition?
3.
Why does she yawn continuously and fall asleep shortly after every meal?

mā, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/11/22

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello,
1.
I feel that my leg strength and overall physical stamina are not what they used to be.
Why is that? The mild stroke you mentioned could lead to weakness in walking.
I'm curious if the physician has explained the relevant areas of the brain and the corresponding clinical symptoms.
Sometimes, during an acute stroke, to maintain stable cerebral blood flow, it is advisable to minimize the frequency of getting out of bed, which can lead to a decrease in muscle strength in the legs.
Additionally, changing positions when getting out of bed can cause orthostatic hypotension, resulting in insufficient cerebral blood circulation and neurological deficits.
This situation can also occur with the use of antihypertensive medications or during hypoglycemia.
Generally, neurologists will adjust the treatment plan based on different conditions, but it can be challenging for family members to understand the entire rationale.
2.
With time, will I regain my previous leg strength and physical stamina? The issue you raised is indeed the most critical part.
The brain cell necrosis caused by a stroke means that the cells do not regenerate; instead, rehabilitation must actively promote the connection of surviving brain cells.
The effectiveness of rehabilitation is best in the first month, and progress becomes limited after three months, which is known as the golden period for rehabilitation.
It is usually hoped that family members will invest more effort during this time.
3.
After every meal, I find myself yawning continuously and feel like I'm falling asleep.
Why is that? One possible reason is that postprandial blood flow to the stomach increases, altering the overall blood circulation.
Due to a decrease in physical activity, there may be some muscle loss.
It is not advisable to overeat; if weight increases too rapidly, it can hinder rehabilitation efforts.
Adequate nutrition is recommended, but excessive fat intake should be avoided.
The path to rehabilitation can be challenging, so I suggest discussing the next treatment and management options (such as risk factor control, post-stroke rehabilitation plans, etc.) with your mother's attending physician.
Wishing you and your mother good health, safety, and happiness.
Dr.
Tao, Neurology, cares for you.

Reply Date: 2017/11/22

More Info

Your mother's situation following her recent mild stroke is understandably concerning, and it's important to approach her recovery with both hope and realistic expectations. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Why does my mother feel weaker in her legs and overall physical strength compared to before?
After a stroke, even a mild one, it is common for patients to experience weakness or fatigue. This can be attributed to several factors. First, the brain may have sustained some damage that affects the areas responsible for motor control and strength. Second, the hospitalization and the acute nature of her condition may have led to a period of inactivity, which can cause muscle atrophy and weakness. When patients are not able to move around as they normally would, their muscles can weaken due to disuse. Additionally, the emotional and psychological impact of experiencing a stroke can lead to fatigue and a lack of motivation, further contributing to feelings of weakness.

2. Will she regain her previous strength and physical condition over time?
Recovery from a stroke can vary significantly from person to person. The first six months post-stroke are often referred to as the "golden period" for rehabilitation, during which patients tend to see the most improvement. With appropriate rehabilitation, including physical therapy, many patients can regain a significant amount of their strength and function. However, the extent of recovery depends on various factors, including the severity of the stroke, the specific areas of the brain affected, the patient's overall health, and their commitment to rehabilitation. It is crucial for your mother to engage in a structured rehabilitation program that includes exercises to strengthen her legs and improve her mobility. Consistency and effort in her rehabilitation can lead to better outcomes.

3. Why does she feel excessively sleepy after meals?
Feeling sleepy after eating, especially if it occurs consistently, can be related to several factors. One possibility is that the body directs more blood to the digestive system after a meal, which can lead to feelings of fatigue. Additionally, certain foods, particularly those high in carbohydrates, can cause a spike in blood sugar followed by a drop, leading to drowsiness. Another consideration is that fatigue can be a symptom of the stroke itself or a result of the body’s healing process. If she is experiencing excessive sleepiness that interferes with her daily activities, it would be advisable to discuss this with her healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues.

In conclusion, while your mother may experience challenges in her recovery, there is potential for improvement with the right support and rehabilitation. It is essential to maintain open communication with her healthcare team, adhere to prescribed therapies, and encourage her to stay active within her limits. Support from family members, including emotional encouragement and assistance with rehabilitation exercises, can also play a vital role in her recovery journey.

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