What is a stroke?
A stroke is the result of a sudden disruption of the blood supply to your brain. When your brain doesn’t get enough oxygen and other nutrients, the cells begin to die quickly.
There are several types of stroke:
Ischemic stroke
Many strokes occur because of a blockage in the arteries that travel to your brain, known as an ischemic stroke. Blockages typically develop when fatty deposits or clots build up in the blood vessels of your brain.
Hemorrhagic stroke
A hemorrhagic stroke happens when a blood vessel in your brain begins to leak or ruptures. This type of stroke is a common side effect of uncontrolled high blood pressure, trauma, or an ischemic stroke.
Transient ischemic attack (TIA)
TIA is also known as a ministroke and occurs when there’s a temporary reduction in the blood flow to your brain. This type of stroke doesn’t cause permanent damage but may increase your risk for an ischemic stroke later.
What are the symptoms of a stroke?
There are several warning signs of a stroke. The sooner you recognize symptoms and seek treatment, the more effective your treatment will be.
Common stroke symptoms include:
- Vision issues
- Sudden headache
- Trouble speaking
- Difficulty understanding speech
- Paralysis of the face, arms, or legs
Even if you experience these symptoms and they go away, you should call 911 or visit the local emergency room for a diagnostic evaluation.
How is a stroke treated?
Emergency medical care for a stroke involves diagnostic testing, such as a computerized tomography (CT) scan or an echocardiogram, to determine the type of stroke you’re having.
The goal of treating a stroke focuses on restoring blood flow to your brain as quickly as possible. This often requires intravenous (IV) medications or surgery to remove the blockage in a blood vessel. In the event of a hemorrhagic stroke, you may need surgery to repair the ruptured vessel.
Following emergency medical treatment, the team at South Palm Cardiovascular Associates focuses on your recovery. Depending on the severity of your stroke and the amount of cell damage, you can expect to spend time in a rehabilitation program to restore your quality of life.
Rehabilitation from a stroke may involve physical therapy, speech therapy, and language therapy to help you regain your independence. Your physician can provide the resources you need for continued care after you leave the hospital.
To learn more about the services available for stroke care, call South Palm Cardiovascular Associates or request an appointment online today.
