After experiencing a mild stroke, people may suffer from hidden disabilities such as depression, vision problems and challenges to cognitive processing. Researchers from the University of Montreal studied over 200 people in Quebec, Ontario and Alberta within six weeks of their stroke, and discovered that these individuals had high rates of sleeplessness and depression. In fact, many reported a significant decrease in their quality of life, following a so-called “mild” stroke.
Each year almost 15,000 people in Canada experience a mild stroke and many more go unreported. These individuals often face post-episodic challenges, but are frequently not provided with any support other than being told to “go and see their family doctor.” Meanwhile, concerns over work, driving ability, additional strokes and uncertainty about the future cause debilitating fear and anxiety.
The study calls for new guidelines for the treatment and management of mild strokes; access to rehabilitation services; and better screening and subsequent treatment for depression.
To read the online article posted on Science Daily, go towww.sciencedaily.com.