[Experiencing acute stroke: the meaning of the illness for hospitalized patients].

The aim was to understand the meaning of the experience of the acute stroke patient. This was a qualitative study, based on the conceptual theory of symbolic interaction. It was conducted in a unit specialized in the treatment of stroke at a tertiary hospital in Fortaleza-CE and the ethical aspects were respected. The study included ten patients and data were collected through open interviews. The data were organized and analyzed according to enunciation techniques. The meaning of the illness experience was constructed based on the perception of the feelings that arose during the hospitalization and was characterized by fear of death and the sequelae of the disease; sorrow for the distance from home; relief, when a patient perceived an improved clinical course; and a desire to change one´s lifestyle. The experience of illness due to stroke is complex, as meanings are elaborated ​​from the feelings, actions and behaviors of the subjects.