Stroke, the Prime Cause of Disability Mon , Apr 1

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Types of Strokes

Ischemic stroke
Hemorrhagic stroke

Ischemic Stroke

This is the most common type of stroke. It happens when the brain’s blood vessels become narrowed or blocked. This causes reduced blood flow to the brain, leading to death of the tissue, called infarction.

Hemorrhagic Stroke

Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing bleeding into the surrounding tissue.

Factors related to hemorrhagic stroke include

High blood pressure
Overtreatment with blood thinners, also known as anticoagulants.
Bulges at weak spots in the blood vessel walls, known as aneurysms.
Head trauma

Symptoms

Recognizing the signs of a stroke is crucial for prompt medical attention and treatment. The BEFAST acronym (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) is a useful tool for identifying stroke symptoms:
Balance: Loss of balance or dizziness
Eye: Double vision or blurred vision
Face: Sudden numbness or drooping on one side of the face.
Arms: Weakness or numbness in one arm, making it difficult to raise.
Speech: Slurred speech or difficulty speaking.
Time: Time to call emergency services if any of these symptoms occur.

Other symptoms of a stroke can include

Acute confusion
Bilateral lower limb weakness
Weakness of all 4 limbs
Loss of consciousness
Uncontrolled movements of one side of the body

Treatment and Recovery

Treatment for strokes varies depending on the type and severity of the stroke, as well as time since symptoms started.

For Ischemic strokes

Clot dissolving medications can be given to restore the blood flow to the brain. However, this can be used only within 4.5 hours of symptoms onset. If there is a clot in one of the bigger vessels in the brain, it can be removed by a procedure called thrombectomy. This can be done upto 24 hours from the onset of the symptoms. Blood thinning medications may also be prescribed to prevent further strokes.

For hemorrhagic strokes

The treatment focuses on controlling bleeding and reducing pressure on the brain. This can be done medically, or if this fails, surgical interventions may be needed.

Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation

Beyond acute treatment, MGM Healthcare’s commitment to comprehensive stroke care extends into the realm of rehabilitation. The neurology department collaborates closely with rehabilitation specialists, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists, to devise tailored rehabilitation plans aimed at maximizing recovery and restoring independence for stroke survivors.
Strokes are medical emergencies that require immediate attention and intervention. By understanding the types, symptoms, and treatment options for strokes, individuals can take proactive steps to reduce their risk and improve their chances of recovery. Awareness remains the most important factor in the fight against strokes.
For inquiries or to schedule a consultation, please call us at 044-4524 2424. We have a team of expert neurologists dedicated to treating and managing patients with frequent migraines.

Reviewed by
Dr. Sreenivas UM
Consultant
Department of Neurology