Abstract
Stroke is a devastating event that carries a potential for long-term disability. Malnutrition is frequently observed in patients with stroke, and dysphagia contributes to malnutrition risk. During both the acute phase of stroke and rehabilitation, specific nutritional interventions in the context of a multidisciplinary team effort can enhance the recovery of neurocognitive function. Early identification and management of malnutrition with dietary modifications or specific therapeutic strategies to ensure adequate nutritional intake should receive more attention, since poor nutritional status appears to exacerbate brain damage and to contribute to adverse outcome. The main purpose of nutritional intervention should be the prevention or treatment of complications resulting from energy-protein deficit. This paper reviews the evaluation and management of malnutrition and the use of specialized nutrition support in patients with stroke. Emphasis is given to enteral tube and oral feeding and to strategies to wean from tube feeding.
Highlights
Stroke is the third leading cause of mortality in developed countries after coronary heart disease and cancer [1]
In 2008, a stroke prevalence of 7,000,000 patients has been estimated for the US with an average of one patient dying from stroke every 4 min [1]
Consequences, and management of malnutrition in patients with stroke
Summary
Stroke is the third leading cause of mortality in developed countries after coronary heart disease and cancer [1]. Across European countries, stroke incidence varies between 100 and 700 events per 100,000 inhabitants [2]. Mortality rates during the first 30 days after stroke and at 1 year are 20 and 30%, respectively. The large majority (65– 85%) of strokes in the Western world are ischemic whereas hemorrhagic strokes, which are less frequent, are more disabling [4]. Even with optimal acute management, more than 30% of stroke survivors will have severe disability after stroke and 20% will require institutional care at 3 months [1]. Malnutrition is frequently observed in patients with acute stroke and during the rehabilitation period. Consequences, and management of malnutrition in patients with stroke
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
