According to American Stroke Association, stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States of America. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel or artery that takes the blood to the brain is clogged or when it bursts. When the blood flow to the brain is prevented, the brain cells start dying and as a result the functions of the brain controlled by that particular area, also suffers. Stroke can have a devastating not only on the patient but also on the family concerned. Taking the patient to the hospital in time can prevent further damage and with proper treatment can reduce the extent of damage.
There are two main types of stroke. Ischemic Stroke is when there is a clogging or a blood clot in the vessel or the artery that carries the blood to the brain. Hemorrhagic stroke is when a artery or a blood vessel ruptures thus preventing the blood flow. Also Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) or ‘mini attack’, lasts only for short while, and the symptoms will leave. This should not be taken lightly, as this precedes a stroke. The treatment for each of these types may vary accordingly.
It will be important being aware of the time when the first sign or symptom is noticed. Keeping the doctor informed of other medical ailments and if, he/she is on medication will help them to determine how best to treat the patient suffering from stroke. Firstly identifying the location where the brain has got damaged and the extent and the cause will help the physicians to start immediate treatment. For this, a computed tomography (CT) Scan and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head will be carried out to diagnose the type of stroke. The information received from these tests will be vital as treatment will depend on the identification of the type of stroke. The patient will be closely monitored at this stage in order to prevent further damage to the brain. The best way to make blood flow to the brain if it is an ischemic stroke or to stop further bleeding in the brain if it a hemorrhagic stroke will be identified next. It is of utmost importance that proper treatment is administered as soon as possible for a quicker recovery and less damage. Injecting a clot dissolving drug called Tissue Plasminogen Activator (TPA) for an ischemic stroke within the first three hours of the first symptom will increase the chances of recovery. Other medications too will be given to control the blood pressure, seizures and fever.
In the case of hemorrhagic stroke, every possible avenue to control bleeding and reduce pressure will be taken. The patient will be closely monitored to avoid further pressure in the brain and will look out for restlessness, being unable to follow commands and other stroke symptoms. If found that the patient is bleeding heavily or showing signs of getting worse, brain surgery will be carried out.
Prompt treatment will help increase the chances of survival. Being aware of what stroke is, its symptoms and the importance of getting immediate medical attention will be extremely helpful if and when the need arises.
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