A new clinic has opened to support young stroke patients recovering from a mild stroke while juggling work, family and care responsibilities.
The clinic was established in partnership with the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
Professor Judy Clegg, interim head of the School of Health Professions, Pharmacy, Nursing and Midwifery at the University of Sheffield, said: “The challenges are unique for young stroke survivors in our region, from returning to work to managing family life.
“This service will meet their needs in a relaxed, non-hospital environment and help reduce the anxiety and isolation that can occur after a minor stroke.
“Our collaboration with Sheffield Teaching Hospitals will also support research and training for future stroke clinicians, helping to secure lasting benefits for people across South Yorkshire.”
The clinic focuses on stroke patients under the age of 65, who have experienced a mild stroke and are often preparing to return to work or family life.
This group usually has better physical function than older patients or those with more severe strokes, so they are usually discharged from the hospital soon after diagnosis.
This can cause patients to feel anxious and isolated, worry about what they can do safely, and worry about the impact on their work, family, and social lives.
The clinic allows patients to be seen by specialized clinicians in a non-hospital setting to discuss their individual needs.
We also provide comprehensive support to help further prevent stroke, including advice on diet, exercise and psychological health, and referrals to specialist services where necessary.
Recognizing that stroke can affect not only the survivor but also their relatives, family members are encouraged to attend and ask questions.
Patients appreciate the one-stop nature of the clinic, where they can access advice from stroke nurses, dietitians, exercise experts and stroke associations without the need for multiple appointments.
Dr Amanda Jones, Clinical Director of Stroke Pathways at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, said: “This is a true collaboration and the first NHS clinic to be run at a university. The more relaxed environment makes discussion easier than in a traditional outpatient clinic.”
“This allows patients to come to terms with their diagnosis, discuss tests and medications, and talk about personal concerns and goals in a way that is tailored to young patients.”
A 32-year-old patient said: “I ran again and went back to racquetball.
“Thanks to the advice from the clinic, I was able to lower my cholesterol and blood pressure, which caused my stroke, so I know it’s the best thing I can do to stay on track.”