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Stroke: Common Disabilities

Topic Overview

Stroke is the most common cause of disability resulting from damage to the nervous system. A stroke may affect:

  • Movement. You may not be able to use your arms or walk. This is usually because of weakness or paralysis on one side of the body (hemiparesis).
  • Speech and language. You may not be able to speak, read, or write. Also, you may not be able to understand what someone else is saying.
  • Thinking and reasoning. You may not be able to think clearly. The stroke may cause you to act differently than you did before the stroke.
  • Senses. You may not be able to feel when something or someone touches your affected body parts, such as the arms or legs. Your sight or hearing may be affected (rare).

Credits

Current as of: July 6, 2021

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Brian D. O'Brien MD - Internal Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Karin M. Lindholm DO - Neurology
Richard D. Zorowitz MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation