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Stroke Q&A

What is a stroke?

A stroke happens when the blood flow to your brain is compromised. When your brain doesn’t have adequate blood flow, it’s deprived of oxygen, and brain cells die. 

 

Getting treatment within a few hours after your stroke greatly improves your chance of a full recovery. But, even if stroke treatment happens some time after your incident, you can expect improvements in impaired functions. 

What symptoms accompany strokes?

Knowing the symptoms of strokes means you can seek emergency treatment right away. The acronym FAST helps you remember the signs of stroke: 

  • Face: You may notice drooping or sagging on one side
  • Arm: One arm feels weak or tingly
  • Speech: You may have a hard time speaking or understanding others
  • Time: Timely treatment is essential so call 911

When suffering a stroke, you may feel dizzy, confused, or off balance. Double or blurry vision and a severe headache may also occur. 

What are the different types of stroke?

Strokes can happen in three different ways:

  • Ischemic stroke: happens when an artery is blocked
  • Hemorrhagic stroke: happens when a blood vessel ruptures
  • Transient ischemic attack (TIA): a mini-stroke

A TIA doesn’t cause permanent brain damage but is an indication that you may go on to experience a full-blown stroke. In fact, one-third of all people who have a TIA go on to experience a stroke.  

If you experience a TIA, seek care at The Neurology Institute to start preventive care.

How do you treat a stroke?

You get comprehensive stroke care at The Neurology Institute. The team offers risk assessment, stroke prevention, and treatment after a stroke and post-stroke rehabilitation.

Your initial treatment depends on the type of stroke:

Ischemic stroke treatment

The goal following an ischemic stroke is to restore blood flow quickly. You may need medication to dissolve the clot blocking the artery or will undergo a procedure like a balloon angioplasty to remove the blockage.

Hemorrhagic stroke treatment

Initial treatment for a hemorrhagic stroke aims to stop the bleeding and reduce the pressure caused by blood accumulating in your brain. Most people with a hemorrhagic stroke require surgery to repair the affected blood vessels. 

Get the preventive and rehabilitative care you need for strokes at The Neurology Institute. Call today or use the online tool to schedule an appointment.