Living with long term illness - Life after stroke
Stroke occurs when an artery in the brain suddenly becomes blocked or bleeds.
This can damage part of the brain, which in turn impairs a range of functions including movement of body parts and communication. The effects depend on which part of the brain was damaged and how severely. A person who suffers a small stroke may recover, while a larger stroke can lead to permanent disabilities1.
According to the National Stroke Foundation there are some important things that you can do to:
- regain most of the skills or functions lost by the stroke
- cope with the changes caused by the stroke
- move on with life following the stroke
- prevent another stroke
What can I do?
Consider the following, in consultation with your doctor:
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Take your
medicines as prescribed by your doctor and learn how to use them wisely
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Keep appointments: work with your doctor and other health service providers toward your health targets
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Emergency plan: work with your doctor and others to recognise and manage a health emergency
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Overcome overweight or obesity and keep within your
healthy weight range, according to medical advice
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Needs, goals and decisions: Ask questions and involve other people if and when you need help
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Talk with your doctor about whether vaccinations are appropriate for you to help keep you well
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Records: Keep information about your health to share with your doctor or other health service providers
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Learn about your condition, including symptoms that tell you your condition is worsening
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Where can I learn more about stroke?
Who can help me?
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IN AN EMERGENCY ALWAYS CALL 000
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Crisis counselling
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Your general practitioner (GP) or family doctor will be able to help you manage your health
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If you have a health concern but it's not an emergency, you can phone 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for help
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If you have a question about
medicines, you can phone the Medicines Line (1300 888 763)
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How do I find a general practitioner (GP) or family doctor?
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QFinder is a free searchable online listing of public, private and non-government providers of health and community services in Queensland
Your GP may recommend that you visit a specialist medical practitioner or other health service provider.
Other health service providers
What should I bring with me when visiting my health service provider?
You may find it helpful to bring along information on:
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B ackground medical history, and information on current allergies, illnesses and emotional concerns
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E xact details about your medicines, vitamins, creams, injections, and any other treatments
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O ther doctors or health service providers currently involved in your care
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R eferral letters, reports, test results
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G oals for your health and any questions you might have about your health and wellbeing
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A llergies or sensitivities to medication, food or other substances
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N ew or recent changes in any conditions you have, including new treatments or medicines
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I nformation you may keep to monitor your condition at home, such as blood pressure or blood glucose levels
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S pecial needs you may have regarding your culture, language, and social or legal issues important to your care
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E xercise, diet, smoking, alcohol intake and any other lifestyle factors
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D etails including your current address, contact numbers, Medicare card and any pension cards, private health insurance cards or concession cards you may hold
What should I know about Queensland Health hospital services?
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