SECTION 1
What Is a Stroke?
A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced. The brain needs oxygen-rich blood to function. When that flow is blocked or a blood vessel bursts, brain cells can become damaged. Stroke is a medical emergency. Early treatment improves outcomes.
Types of Stroke
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Ischaemic Stroke — Caused by a blood clot blocking a vessel in the brain.
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Haemorrhagic Stroke — Caused by bleeding in or around the brain.
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Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) — Temporary stroke-like symptoms that resolve within 24 hours but require urgent assessment and follow-up treatment to understand your stroke risk factors.
Recognising Stroke — BE FAST
Learn these signs. Acting quickly saves lives.
Balance — Loss of balance or coordination.
Eyes — Changes in vision.
Face — Drooping features on one side. Ask the person to smile.
Arm — Weakness in a limb. Ask the person to raise their arm.
Speech — Difficulty speaking or understanding others.
Time — Call emergency services immediately.
⚠ Note the time of the incident and do not attempt to drive yourself to the hospital! Call 911. The ambulance team can administer medication on the way and assist you safely.
SECTION 2
Stroke Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is the process of rebuilding strength, skills, confidence, and independence after a stroke. Rehabilitation may begin in hospital and continue in outpatient or community settings across Bermuda.
Your Rehabilitation Team may help you with:
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Physiotherapist – Walking, balance, strength, fall prevention.
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Occupational Therapist – Daily living skills, upper limb recovery, home safety.
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Speech & Language Therapist – Communication and swallowing support.
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Neuropsychologist / Psychologist – Emotional adjustment, memory, coping strategies.
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Doctors & Nurses – Medical management and stroke prevention.
SECTION 3
Life After Stroke — What to Expect
Recovery is rarely a straight line. Some days feel encouraging; others feel frustrating. This is normal and part of the healing process.
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Physical Changes
Weakness, fatigue, balance difficulties.
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Communication changes
Word-finding difficulty, slower speech.
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Cognitive Changes
Memory and concentration challenges.
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Emotional Changes
Anxiety, low mood, grief, adjustment stress.
SECTION 4
Returning to Bermuda After Stroke
Step 1: Contact Your GP
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Book an appointment as soon as possible after returning.
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Bring discharge summaries and medication list.
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Ask for a referral to the Hospital Day Clinic if appropriate.
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Ask for referral to Community Health Services.
Step 2: Arrange Rehabilitation Support
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Find a Physiotherapist (PT), Occupational Therapist (OT), and Speech & Language Therapist (SLT) based on your needs.
Step 3: Emotional & Cognitive Support
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Consider making an appointment with a Neuropsychologist or Psychologist.
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Stroke can be emotionally challenging for survivors and families.
Step 4: Specialist Follow-Up
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Referral to Dr. Fox at Bermuda Hospitals Board (if appropriate).
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Referral to a Neurologist for follow-up if required.
Step 5: Goal Setting
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Work with your healthcare providers to set meaningful, achievable goals such as returning to work, walking independently, driving (when medically cleared), or increasing community participation.
SECTION 5
Your Personal Stroke Record
Keeping a personal record can help you feel more in control of your recovery. Consider tracking the following:
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Date and type of stroke
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Medication list
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Blood pressure readings
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Therapy appointments
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Questions for healthcare providers
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Personal recovery goals