Treatment and Prevention for Stroke

Stroke and Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)

A stroke is a serious medical emergency that occurs when the brain’s blood supply is disrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of the essential oxygen and nutrients it needs to function. When this happens, brain cells in the affected area begin to die rapidly, leading to potentially severe and long-lasting damage.

A transient ischaemic attack, or TIA, often referred to as a “mini-stroke,” presents symptoms similar to those of a stroke but is temporary and causes no permanent damage. A TIA occurs when blood flow to the brain, spinal cord, or retina is briefly blocked. TIAs typically resolve within minutes or hours but are a serious warning that a full stroke may occur in the future. Medical attention is crucial after a TIA, as early evaluation and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of future strokes.

Types of Strokes

There are two primary types of strokes:

1. Ischaemic Stroke:Most strokes are ischaemic, occurring when a blood clot blocks or narrows an artery to the brain, reducing oxygen delivery to the affected area.
2. Haemorrhagic Stroke: This occurs when an artery within the brain ruptures, causing bleeding in or around brain tissue. This type of stroke is often associated with high blood pressure or aneurysms (weakened arterial walls that may burst).

Recognising Stroke Symptoms

Immediate medical intervention is essential in cases of stroke, as timely treatment can significantly impact outcomes. Stroke symptoms include:

• Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion or difficulty speaking and understanding speech
• Sudden vision disturbances in one or both eyes
• Sudden trouble with balance, coordination, or walking
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause

The B.E.F.A.S.T. Rule for Stroke

The B.E.F.A.S.T. rule can help identify stroke symptoms quickly:

• B - Balance: Is the person having a sudden loss of balance or having difficulty standing or walking?
• E - Eyes: Is the person having trouble seeing or experiencing double vision?
• F - Face: Does the face look asymmetrical? Does one side of the face droop?
• A - Arms: Is there any sudden weakness or numbness in one or both arms?
• S - Speech: Is the person having difficulty speaking? Is the speech slurred or hard to understand?
• T - Time: Prompt action is critical; knowing the symptom onset time can aid doctors in delivering timely care.

Stroke Risk Factors

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of stroke, including the 3-highs (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high blood sugar or diabetes), heart disease, obesity, lifestyle habits such as smoking; excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and unhealthy diet, and misusing drugs.

Non-modifiable risk factors include family history of stroke and being of older age and had previous stroke or TIA episodes. Strokes are also more prevalent among women than men.

Diagnosing Stroke

Accurate and prompt stroke diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Diagnostic evaluations may include:

1. Imaging tests: A CT scan is usually the first test to determine if a stroke is ischaemic or haemorrhagic. An MRI may follow if further detail is required.
2. Blood tests: These assess factors such as blood cell counts, clotting ability, and blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
3. Cardiac tests: An electrocardiogram (ECG) helps identify irregular heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation, which raises stroke risk.

Treatment Options for Stroke

Treatments vary depending on the type of stroke.

1. Ischaemic stroke treatment

• Intravenous thrombolysis: Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) can dissolve clots if administered within 4.5 hours.
• Mechanical thrombectomy: A procedure that removes clots within 24 hours in specific cases.
• Antiplatelet agents: Medications like aspirin help prevent future clots.
• Anticoagulants: Occasionally used, with careful monitoring for bleeding risks.

2. Haemorrhagic stroke treatment

• Blood pressure management: Medications to control blood pressure reduce further bleeding risk.
• Reversal of blood thinners: If anticoagulant use is involved, interventions may reverse these effects.
• Surgical intervention: Some cases require surgery to repair ruptured arteries.

Lifestyle Adjustments and Returning to Normal Life Post-Stroke

Life after a stroke can be challenging, but with appropriate care, rehabilitation, and support, many people regain a sense of normalcy. The extent of recovery varies based on stroke severity, the affected brain region, and personal health. With determination and support, many individuals can lead fulfilling lives after a stroke.

Certain lifestyle modifications can help with recovery and reduce the risk of subsequent strokes:

• Balanced diet: Emphasise fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid excessive caffeine, salt, and saturated fats.
• Regular exercise: Helps with cardiovascular health, weight control, and blood pressure management.
• Limit smoking and alcohol: Reducing these helps lower the risk of recurrent stroke.
• Stress management: Engage in relaxation practices like yoga or meditation.

Schedule an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals

If you or someone you know displays symptoms of a stroke, seek emergency assistance immediately. Swift intervention can make a significant difference in recovery outcomes.

For stroke-related concerns, book an appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals. The team of neurologists is dedicated to providing specialised care, tailored to individual needs, to support stroke recovery and prevention.