Disease
Ischemic Stroke
Overview of Ischemic Stroke
Ischemic stroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when a blood clot in the brain blocks or narrows a blood vessel, restricting blood flow. This leads to brain ischemia, where brain tissue is deprived of oxygen and nutrients, causing cell damage. Often referred to as cerebral ischemia, this type of stroke is the most common and requires immediate treatment to prevent long-term disability or death.
Types of Ischemic Stroke
- Thrombotic Stroke: Caused by a clotting of blood in the brain or neck arteries.
- Embolic Stroke: Caused by a blood clot that forms elsewhere in the body and travels to the brain.
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Known as a mild stroke, it is a temporary blockage and a warning sign of future strokes.
Symptoms of Ischemic Stroke
Common signs such as:
- Sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side)
- Trouble speaking or understanding speech
- Vision problems
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Severe headache (a sign of blood clot in head symptoms)
Causes of Ischemic Stroke
The most common ischemic stroke causes include:
- Blood clots in brain due to atherosclerosis (narrowed arteries)
- Irregular heart rhythms, for example atrial fibrillation
- High blood pressure and cholesterol
- Smoking and diabetes
Complications in Ischemic Stroke
An acute ischemic stroke can lead to:
- Paralysis or loss of muscle control
- Memory and cognitive issues
- Difficulty in speech and swallowing
- Depression and emotional changes
- Death in severe cases
Risk Factors of Ischemic Stroke
People at higher risk for ischemic strokes include those with:
- Hypertension
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Smoking habits
- Family history of stroke
- Age above 55
Preventions of Ischemic Stroke
Preventing an ischemic stroke involves:
- Managing blood pressure and cholesterol
- Controlling diabetes
- Quitting smoking
- Exercising regularly
- Healthy eating habits
- Using blood thinners if prescribed (to avoid clotting of blood in brain)
Diagnosis of Ischemic Stroke
To confirm what is an ischemic stroke, doctors may recommend:
- CT scan or MRI to detect blood clot in brain
- Blood tests
- Carotid ultrasound
- Echocardiogram
- Angiography to examine blood vessels
Treatments of Ischemic Stroke
Ischemic stroke treatment depends on the timing and severity:
- Clot-dissolving medications (given within 4.5 hours of symptom onset)
- Mechanical thrombectomy (removes a brain clot through a catheter)
- Antiplatelet and anticoagulant medications
- Long-term rehabilitation therapy
Prognosis of Ischemic Stroke
- Early treatment leads to better recovery and reduced complications.
- Many patients with mild strokes recover well with rehab.
- Younger, healthier individuals often experience faster improvement.
- Physical and speech therapy boost recovery outcomes.
- Lifestyle changes help prevent future strokes.
- Some may have lasting effects, but many regain independence.
- Support from family and doctors is key to long-term progress.
- Advances in treatment have improved survival and recovery rates.
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
At MyhealthMydoctor we offer:
- Rapid access to neurologists and stroke units
- Personalised care for ischemic cerebrovascular accident treatment
- Rehabilitation services for physical and cognitive recovery
- Teleconsultation for follow up care
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- What is ischemic stroke and how is it different from other strokes?
- Can I recover fully from a brain ischemia?
- What medications will I need to prevent future blood clots in brain?
- Is long-term therapy necessary for ischemia and stroke?
- How do I reduce my risk of another ischemic stroke?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- Clear explanation of the condition
- Immediate action plan for ischemic stroke treatment
- Transparent discussion about prognosis and care options
- Emotional and psychological support
- Personalized rehabilitation planning