Many stroke sufferers, regardless of the side of the brain affected, experience a visual problem in which their visual fields are cut in half. You can also expect some recent stroke victims to show a partial loss of emotional control, usually crying. If it is neurologically based, and not due to frustration or depression, it can typically be interrupted by diverting the person's attention. In addition to the limitations caused by the physical damage to the brain, a stroke victim may also experience behavioral problems resulting from her response to the new disability. Understanding the origin and nature of these problems will help stroke victims and their families deal more effectively with them.
Depression is the most common emotional effect of stroke.
Researchers estimate that 30 to 60 percent of stroke victims suffer post-stroke depression, with incidence of depression increasing six months to two years after the stroke. It's important to treat depression. Therapy, anti-depressant medication and social support may all be used to reduce depression. Left untreated, depressed stroke patients have a higher likelihood of dying in the years following the stroke. After most strokes, an individual is likely to have some permanent deficits.