Stroke
DCND neurologists cover stroke care at several area hospitals.
A stroke is caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain usually triggered by a blocked or ruptured blood vessel. According to the American Stroke Association, it’s the 5th leading cause of death in the country.
Strokes can be prevented by maintaining a proper blood pressure, eating right and exercising. Strokes can be prevented by maintaining good health such as proper blood pressure, eating right and exercise.
Time is a critical part of stroke care so the minute you think you or a loved one is suffering from one, call 9-1-1.
We often use the acronym F.A.S.T to know the symptoms.
Face Drooping
Arm Weakness
Speech Difficulty
Time to call 9-1-1.
Our Stroke Services
Types of Strokes
Ischemic– this is the most common type of stroke. It’s caused by a blockage in the arteries going to the brain. Blood clots are usually the cause of these blockages.
Hemorrhagic– these occur when an artery in the brain ruptures or starts to leak blood. This causes too much pressure to brain cells and it damages them. High blood pressure and aneurysms can cause this kind of stroke.
Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIA)– These are caused by a temporary blood flow blockage in the brain. These can be a warning sign for a future major stroke.
Stroke Symptoms
- Sudden numbness or weakness in face, arm or leg. Especially on one side of the body.
- Sudden confusion or difficulty understanding speech.
- Severe headaches.
- Trouble walking or lack of balance.
Stroke Treatment
.Time is brain in stroke care. Fast treatment can lessen brain damage. It’s important to seek medical attention at a hospital right away if you have any symptoms. Your doctor will evaluate your medical history and ask when your symptoms started. Brain scans will help your neurologist understand what kind of stroke you had.
Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA)- Known as a “clot busting” drug. This medication is given at the hospital if a patient gets there within 4.5 hours of their Ischemic stroke. This medication can help in recovering from a stroke.
Endovascular procedure– These are used to treat some ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. It involves a small catheter or tube inserted in a major artery that guides a device to remove clots or repair damage and prevent bleeding.
Surgery– In some cases, a neurosurgeon will install a metal clip on aneurysm to help stop the bleeding after a hemorrhagic stroke.
Stroke Risk Factors
Once you have one stroke, you are more likely to have another one. This is why identifying the cause is important.
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- High cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Family history
- Unhealthy diet
- Obesity
- Too much alcohol
- Tobacco use
- Age
- Sickle Cell Disease
*Information obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Stroke Recovery
Recovery is different for every patient. Some have full recoveries while others have life-long disabilities. Rehabilitation can help including speech, physical or occupational therapies. Support groups can also help with mental health and depression. Click here for information about a local group.
Healthy Living
Up to 80% of strokes can be prevented with a healthy lifestyle. Eating a proper diet can help prevent a stroke. Limit your salt intake to manage your blood pressure. Avoid foods high in trans fats, saturated fats and cholesterol. Physical activity can also help prevent strokes. The current recommendation for adults is doing 2 1/2 hours a week of physical activity. Not smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can also help.
Moving forward after a stroke
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