After the stroke - tiredness and emotions

[Tarz]

My wife (50 years old) has just experienced her second stroke in three months; one affected the left side of her brain, the other affected the right (both considered "minor").  She is very emotional (weeping at the drop of a hat)and extremely fatigued.  Is this normal?  Will her condition improve over time?  Thanks!

[Quilting1]

Tarz,
Both are VERY common following a stroke.  They both can get better over time; however, there's no guarantees and even if they do she will likely continue to be emotional when she gets tired from things other than the stroke (lack of sleep, etc.).  It can be very hard to handle as a caregiver; I would suggest you explain (when she has a good moment if possible) you want to help her get through this and ask what would help her the most when she's crying, etc., a hug, talking, sitting with her, leaving her a lone, etc. and then follow through.  My dear husband did this when I had my stroke and I can't tell you how much it meant to me that he was not only concerned about me, but cared enough to ask what would help me cope instead of just doing what he thought would help.

There is another good website with information and support - strokenetwork.org  There are a lot of stroke survivors, caregivers, etc. and they are very knowledgeable and supportive.
Pam