“Doctor, I feel very upset seeing my elder who just had a stroke like this. How can I help him?”
First, there is the “four early” principle. We need to identify the symptoms early using the “BE FAST” method to recognize a stroke quickly.
The second “early” refers to receiving treatment as soon as possible. Every minute wasted can lead to over 2 million neurons dying.
The third “early” means starting rehabilitation training promptly. Generally, rehabilitation treatment includes physical therapy (PT), occupational therapy (OT), and speech therapy (SLT). Combining these with traditional Chinese medicine can enhance recovery process.
The fourth “early” is about early prevention, which mainly involves preventing strokes and preventing recurrence. It’s essential to monitor the patient’s blood pressure and cholesterol levels, taking medicine when necessary. Blood pressure should be kept below 140/90 mmHg, but it shouldn’t be too low.
Additionally, we need to take care of the patient’s diet at home. It is advisable to provide food that is easy to chew, easy to digest, and nutritious. Keep the diet low in salt, low in fat, and low in cholesterol, while we can include the fish that rich in fatty acids. When necessary, assist with feeding; the pace shouldn’t be too fast, and meals should be having in time.
Besides that, providing patients with a reasonable daily routine is necessary. Stroke patients should avoid staying up late; thus, maintaining a regular sleep schedule is essential. Moreover, clothes and bedding should be changed regularly to keep them clean and hygienic. Ensure the bedroom temperature is comfortable and open windows regularly for air flow. The patient should also keep a good bowel movement to avoid constipation. If constipation occurs, avoid straining and consume more fiber-rich foods and probiotics to aid digestion.
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