Stroke
Learn about strokes and how MS Queensland can provide assistance and support.
About strokes
A stroke occurs when blood cannot supply oxygen and nutrients to your brain cells, due to a blood clot blocking a blood vessel or when a blood vessel breaks and bleeding into the brain occurs. Stroke is the third most common cause of death in Australia and a leading cause of disability. Approximately half of those who survive a stroke will remain permanently disabled at 1 year after a stroke. In fact, of all neurological disorders stroke is the single largest cause of adult disability.
Adjusting to life after a stroke
The effect of a stroke will vary for each person and many factors determine recovery, such as the type of stroke and the location of the blockage or bleeding.
Some of the problems experienced after a stroke may include:
- Weakness on one side of the body
- Difficulty swallowing food, drink or your own saliva
- Cognitive and memory issues
- Vision loss
- Incontinence
- Problems controlling or coordinating movements
Sources: Brain Foundation Australia, Stroke Foundation Australia
For people who have been affected by stroke there may be options to undertake rehabilitation to support recovery and live well. Because each stroke and its effects are different, recovery and long-term prognosis is difficult to predict.
A person who has suffered from a stroke may require support with:
- Enhancing independence, including help around the home
- Participating in social and recreational activities
- Financial & NDIS advice
- Exercise and rehabilitation programs
- Access to therapy support, aids or equipment to keep you safe and maintain your independence
- Mental health support
How MS Queensland can help
MS Queensland has a long history of helping people with the effects of MS and other neurological disorders such as stroke. We know that many of the symptoms of and treatments for MS are also common to other PNDs and we offer our knowledge, expertise and understanding in this field to a broad range of people. Some of our services include:
- Service coordination
- NDIS access assistance
- Neurophysiotherapy
- Accommodation
- Employment services
How to get help
For more information, questions, or assistance you can contact our NeuroAssist InfoLine on 1800 177 591 Monday – Friday between 8:30am – 5:00pm. You can also request a call back from one of our NeuroAssist team who will be in touch within 24 hours.
