Stroke — Overview & Management
Concise guide on types, symptoms, risk factors, emergency care and rehabilitation.
What is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting enough oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die within minutes.
Types of Stroke
- Ischemic Stroke — caused by a blockage (blood clot or atherosclerosis) in a brain artery.
- Hemorrhagic Stroke — caused by rupture of a blood vessel, leading to bleeding into or around the brain.
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) — temporary blockage with stroke-like symptoms that resolve within 24 hours.
Common Symptoms (FAST rule)
F — Face drooping
A — Arm weakness
S — Speech difficulty
T — Time: call emergency services immediately
Other symptoms can include sudden numbness, vision problems, severe headache, dizziness, or loss of coordination.
Risk Factors
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Heart disease (e.g., atrial fibrillation)
Management
Emergency Care
- Rapid CT / MRI to distinguish ischemic vs hemorrhagic stroke.
- Ischemic stroke:
- Thrombolysis (tPA) if within the recommended time window and no contraindications.
- Mechanical thrombectomy for large vessel occlusion when indicated.
- Hemorrhagic stroke:
- Blood pressure control and reversal of anticoagulation if applicable.
- Neurosurgical intervention when required.
Rehabilitation
Multidisciplinary rehab is essential to regain function and independence:
- Physiotherapy: mobility, strength, gait training
- Occupational therapy: activities of daily living, adaptive strategies
- Speech and language therapy: for communication and swallowing difficulties
- Lifestyle modification: blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol control, smoking cessation