Overview
A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, causing brain cells to die. There are two main types of stroke:
- Ischemic stroke: This is the most common type of stroke, accounting for about 87% of all cases. It occurs when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain.
- Hemorrhagic stroke: This type of stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing bleeding and damage to surrounding brain tissue.
Treatment for stroke typically involves emergency care to restore blood flow to the brain and prevent further damage. This may involve medication to dissolve blood clots, surgery to repair ruptured blood vessels, or other interventions depending on the individual case. After the acute phase of treatment, rehabilitation may be necessary to help the individual regain function and prevent future strokes.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a stroke can vary depending on the part of the brain that is affected, but common signs and symptoms include:
Treatments
The treatment for stroke depends on the type of stroke and the severity of the symptoms. There are two main types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic.
- Ischemic stroke: This is the most common type of stroke, accounting for about 87% of all cases. It occurs when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain. Treatment for ischemic stroke may involve:
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- Medications to dissolve the blood clot and restore blood flow to the brain, such as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) or mechanical thrombectomy
- Antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications to prevent further blood clots
- Surgery to remove the clot or to open up the blocked artery
- Hemorrhagic stroke: This type of stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing bleeding and damage to surrounding brain tissue. Treatment for hemorrhagic stroke may involve:
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- Medications to control blood pressure and prevent further bleeding
- Surgery to repair the ruptured blood vessel or to remove blood clots or other sources of bleeding
- Intensive care management to support the patient’s breathing, blood pressure, and other vital functions
After the acute phase of treatment, rehabilitation may be necessary to help the individual regain function and prevent future strokes. This may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other types of rehabilitation depending on the individual case. It is important to remember that stroke is a medical emergency and that prompt treatment can help to minimize the damage caused by a stroke. If you or someone else experiences symptoms of a stroke, it is important to call emergency services right away.
A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, causing brain cells to die.
- Sudden severe headache
- Sudden trouble walking
- Sudden confusion
- Sudden numbness