After a stroke, there is still much hope for a smooth and healthy recovery. Here are 4 secretes of stroke survivors shared by doctors in hopes of helping others recovery successfully. Check out the full article at http://healthbridge.parrishmed.com/secrets-stroke-survivors and for information on strokes and stroke treatment, visit http://www.parrishmed.com/programs-services/parrish-medical-center/cardiovascular-programs/heart-stroke/default.aspx.

1. Secrets of Stroke Survivors
No one said bouncing back from a stroke is easy,
but it is possible.

2. A stroke strikes swiftly and suddenly and can hit anyone
at any age. It occurs when a blood vessel breaks or a blood
clot blocks an artery, preventing blood from reaching part
of the brain. The side effects can be serious.
"Stroke survivors may suffer paralysis or the inability to
communicate or think clearly," says Daniela Rusovici, MD,
PhD, a neurologist at Parrish Medical Center. "It can be
devastating, but there is a lot of hope for recovery."
So what can you do to bounce back after a stroke?

3. Secret No. 1: Be Active
The most important thing you can do after a stroke is
go to rehabilitation. "Getting therapy early and
sustaining it over time has demonstrated tremendous
benefits," Dr. Rusovici says.
Rehab is your ticket to reclaiming your life and
returning to independent living. Work with your
doctor to determine the best strategy and stick to it,
even when the going gets tough, which it will. And
that leads us to …

4. Secret No. 1: Be Hopeful
Never leave home without a little hope. It's a good
lesson for all of us, but particularly stroke survivors
and their loved ones. "Stroke recovery takes a
community of support," Dr. Rusovici says. "And hope is
a message reinforced by family members and
caregivers."
Some people were simply born more optimistic than
others, but you may find it challenging to hang on to
your hopefulness. If you notice signs of depression,
speak up. It's normal, but you don't have to let it
hinder the healing process.

5. Secret No. 1: Be Determined
Another tool to put in your stroke recovery toolbox:
determination.
Think about how frustrating it can be to learn a new
skill or sport. Now take that and double it, and that's
what it's like to relearn, for example, how to walk or
talk after a stroke, Dr. Rusovici says. "Difficult things
require hard work," she says. "The same is true after
stroke. It takes a lot of effort and practice, but you can
recover."
Set short-term and long-term goals for your recovery
and celebrate when you reach these milestones.

6. Secret No. 1: Be Proactive
Unfortunately, the truth is that you are 40 percent
more likely to have another stroke within five years of
your first. Fight the odds by controlling your risk
factors.
If you have a chronic condition, such as high blood
pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes, get treated and
keep your numbers in check. Make sure any heart
conditions are being managed and monitored by your
physician, and if you smoke, quit. Lastly, maintain a
healthy lifestyle by eating right and exercising. If you
have been prescribed medications after your stroke,
make sure you take them correctly.

7. Remember, recovery can be lengthy and challenging,
but there is life after stroke.

8. Get Help from an Expert
Daniela Rusovici, MD, PhD, practices general neurology
and has an interest in headaches, brain and spinal tumors,
brain injuries, restless legs syndrome and insomnia. She is
seeing patients at the Parrish Healthcare Center at Port
St. John. Call 321-268-6PMG (6764) for an appointment.