People who have suffered strokes are more at risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after the event, it has been claimed.

New research from Durham University has suggested that a similar number of former patients suffer from PTSD symptoms such as flashbacks and painful memories as do soldiers returning from war zones and victims of sexual assaults.

The findings mean many stroke victims' recovery could be aided by a stronger concentration on PTSD in the weeks and months after the event.

"This is the first study to show the profound consequences which post-traumatic stress disorder has for patients who have suffered from a subarachnoid brain haemorrhage," said lead author Adam Noble, a research assistant in Durham University's psychology department.

In the report, published in the Neurosurgery journal, Mr Noble added: "It highlights a need to address this through more tailored treatment such as group therapy and, where possible, prevention through teaching patients more appropriate stress-coping strategies after they suffer a stroke."

Research published earlier this week claimed that people with unhealthy lifestyles are more than twice as likely to suffer a stroke than those who eat and drink healthily, take regular exercise and do not smoke.

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