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Potential Deficits
Survivors of brain aneurysms might suffer short-term and/or long-term deficits as a result of a rupture or treatment. In thirty percent of the cases, these deficits disappear over time.
The recovery process is long and it takes weeks, months, and maybe years to understand the level of deficits you incurred as a result of this trauma.
Survivors should seek neurological assessment from a neuropsychiatrist or neuropsychologist to determine the level of cognitive functioning and associated problems. In many cases, patients enlist speech, physical, and occupational therapists to help them regain normal functions.
For subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) survivors, the deficits are often greater, more noticeable, and require a longer recovery period. Some, not all, SAH and unruptured aneurysm survivors suffer from the following:
- Stroke (mainly SAH)
- Partial or Complete Blindness (mainly SAH)
- Peripheral Vision Deficits (both)
- Cognitive Processing Problems (both)
- Speech Complications (both)
- Perceptual Problems (both)
- Behavioral Inconsistencies (both)
- Loss of Balance & Coordination (brain stem/cerebella aneurysms)
- Decreased Concentration (both)
- Short-term Memory Difficulties (both)
- Fatigue (both)
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Most of these deficits decrease over time with healing and therapy. Many stroke victims recover with increased therapy, and regain most of their functions. More severe hemorrhagic patients might suffer more serious and longer effects. Each patient has a unique set of difficulties.
Work with family members to help you notice your strengths and weaknesses. Sometimes, they are the best ones to notice what slight deficits you might have. They can help be your eyes and ears, as well as help you gain a better understanding of how to deal with these subtle differences. Many of the "background" deficits that are subtler tend to last longer, making it difficult for survivors. Be patient with yourself, and talk to your therapist or doctor about how to deal with these subtle difficulties.
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