Stroke
Overview
Stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted due to a blockage (ischemic stroke) or bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke). Without prompt treatment, strokes can cause lasting brain damage, disability, or even death. Our specialized stroke care focuses on rapid diagnosis, immediate intervention, and comprehensive rehabilitation to improve recovery outcomes.
Symptoms of Stroke
- Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg (especially on one side of the body)
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Vision disturbances in one or both eyes
- Loss of balance, dizziness, or lack of coordination
- Severe headache with no known cause
Remember: Acting FAST (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call emergency services) is critical in stroke cases.
Diagnosis
A rapid and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective stroke treatment. Our hospital utilizes:
- CT Scan & MRI: To identify stroke type (ischemic or hemorrhagic) and its severity.
- Carotid Doppler Ultrasound: To assess blood flow in the neck arteries.
- Cerebral Angiography: To visualize brain blood vessels and detect blockages or abnormalities.
- Blood Tests: To check for clotting disorders, infections, and metabolic imbalances.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) & Echocardiogram: To detect heart-related causes of stroke, such as atrial fibrillation or heart valve disorders.
Treatment Options
The treatment approach depends on the type of stroke and its severity:
Ischemic Stroke (Caused by a Blood Clot)
- Thrombolytic Therapy (Clot-Busting Drugs): Administering tPA (Tissue Plasminogen Activator) within 4.5 hours of symptom onset to dissolve the clot and restore blood flow.
- Mechanical Thrombectomy: A minimally invasive procedure where a catheter is used to physically remove large clots from blocked brain arteries.
- Antiplatelet & Anticoagulant Medications: Aspirin, clopidogrel, or blood thinners to prevent further clot formation.
- Carotid Endarterectomy or Stenting: Removing or expanding narrowed carotid arteries to improve blood flow.
Hemorrhagic Stroke (Caused by Brain Bleeding)
- Blood Pressure Control: Medications to lower blood pressure and reduce further bleeding risk.
- Surgical Intervention: Procedures such as aneurysm clipping, coiling, or decompressive craniectomy to stop bleeding and relieve pressure on the brain.
- Rehabilitation Therapy: Intensive physiotherapy, speech therapy, and cognitive therapy for stroke recovery.
Post-Stroke Rehabilitation
Recovery and rehabilitation play a vital role in improving long-term function and quality of life. Our multidisciplinary team provides:
- Physical Therapy: To improve mobility, strength, and coordination.
- Speech & Swallow Therapy: To restore communication and safe swallowing.
- Occupational Therapy: To help regain independence in daily activities.
- Neuropsychological Support: To address memory loss, mood changes, and cognitive difficulties.
Stroke Prevention & Lifestyle Management
To reduce the risk of recurrent strokes, we emphasize:
- Blood Pressure & Diabetes Management: Strict control of hypertension and diabetes.
- Cholesterol-Lowering Therapy: Statins to prevent further artery blockages.
- Healthy Diet & Exercise: Promoting heart-healthy lifestyle changes.
- Smoking & Alcohol Cessation Programs: Counseling and support to quit harmful habits.
When to Seek Emergency Care
If you or a loved one experience sudden stroke symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Timely treatment can significantly reduce brain damage and improve recovery chances.
Our comprehensive stroke management program ensures rapid intervention, personalized treatment, and long-term support for stroke survivors, helping them regain their independence and quality of life.