What is a common complication post-stroke that needs to be monitored?

Aspiration pneumonia is a common complication that can arise after a stroke, particularly if the stroke affects areas of the brain responsible for swallowing and airway protection. Patients may experience dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) following a stroke, which increases their risk of food or fluids entering the airway and leading to aspiration. This can result in pneumonia due to the presence of foreign materials in the lungs.

Monitoring for aspiration pneumonia is crucial because it can develop quickly and lead to serious health consequences, including respiratory failure. Identifying dysphagia early allows for appropriate interventions, such as dietary modifications or the use of swallowing therapy, to prevent this complication.

While deep vein thrombosis, chronic headaches, and osteoporosis can also occur post-stroke, aspiration pneumonia poses immediate dangers related to respiratory health, making it essential for healthcare providers to closely monitor signs and symptoms in stroke patients.