Action on Stroke month - how we can help

Whether you know somebody who has had a stroke, are dealing with the after effects yourself or are looking to gain some knowledge during Action on Stroke Month, this is the article for you.

Communication and swallowing problems are both very common after a stroke. Over three quarters of stroke survivors experience eating, drinking or swallowing problems. Unfortunately, communication difficulties can also lead to social isolation and frustration for individuals and families. While eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties can have potentially life threatening consequences such as chest infections, choking and pneumonia.

Communication difficulties often experienced by individuals who have suffered a stroke range from problems with understanding language, forming words and speech sounds and moving the correct muscles needed for speech. Some individuals may have a combination of these problems, others may experience them singularly.

It is very common to think that patients who have previously faced such illnesses have to continue living with the symptoms and consequences. However, this is not the case. Speech and language therapy is widely considered beneficial to patients and their family members, providing ongoing support and treatment programmes.

Problems an individual may feel are significantly impacting their ability to fully participate in life could possibly be treated and supported through the skills of a specialist speech and language therapist. With a focus on adaptation as well as rehabilitation, there is a huge spectrum of individuals who can vastly improve their quality of life through the use of these specialist skills.

Meet the specialist

Spire Harpenden’s clinical Specialist Speech and Language Therapist Lyn Button works directly with individuals, carers and healthcare professionals to provide tailored holistic treatment programmes to improve communication. Lyn has over 23 years' experience in the healthcare field, making a profound difference to the lives of many.

This Action on Stroke month, Lyn Button says, "Speech and Language Therapy plays an important role in the rehabilitation and reablement of stroke survivors by assessing needs and providing appropriate strategies to support speech, language, communication and swallowing needs. Working with you to develop joint goals, I aim to maximise your potential and build on your inner resources."

To book an appointment with Mrs Lyn Button today, call us here at Spire Harpenden Hospital on 01582 714 420.

The content of this article is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the professional medical advice of your doctor or other health care professional.