Stroke

Key Points

Overview

A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of your brain is cut off, either due to a blocked blood vessel (ischemic stroke) or a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Without blood, brain cells are deprived of oxygen and nutrients and begin to die within minutes. This can cause lasting brain damage. The effects of a stroke depend on the part of the brain affected and the extent of the damage. It can impact functions like movement, speech, memory, and emotions. Prompt medical attention is crucial to minimize damage and improve recovery outcomes. Treatment focuses on restoring blood flow or stopping bleeding, followed by rehabilitation to help regain lost abilities. Managing underlying health conditions is key to preventing future strokes.

Signs and Symptoms

• Face drooping on one side
• Arm weakness or numbness
• Speech difficulty or slurred
• Sudden vision changes
• Severe headache with no known cause
• Loss of balance or coordination

Things That Increase the Risk

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Heart disease (e.g., atrial fibrillation)
• Previous stroke or TIA

Diagnosis

• Physical and neurological exam
• Brain imaging (CT scan, MRI scan)
• Blood tests
• Carotid ultrasound
• Echocardiogram

Treatment & Management

• Emergency medication (clot-busting drugs)
• Surgery (clot removal, aneurysm repair)
• Rehabilitation therapy (physical, occupational, speech)
• Medications to prevent future strokes
• Lifestyle changes

Prevention

• Manage blood pressure
• Control diabetes
• Maintain healthy weight
• Quit smoking
• Regular exercise
• Eat a healthy diet

Related Diseases

• Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
• Atherosclerosis
• Atrial Fibrillation
• Hypertension
• Aneurysm

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Stroke:

Surgical Options

Learn about surgical procedures available for Stroke: