STROKE CENTRE

What is a Stroke?

A stroke is a sudden loss of brain function caused by the interruption of blood flow to the brain, or by the rupture of blood vessel(s). A stroke is also referred to as a “brain attack”, as this emphasizes the need for urgent medical attention. The two major types of stroke are 1) Ischaemic strokes which are due to occlusion(s) of blood supply to the brain, and 2) Haemorrhagic strokes which are due to ruptured blood vessel(s).

What are the symptoms of a Stroke?

The sudden onset of a symptom that can be localized to an area of a brain should always raise the suspicion of a stroke. Symptoms that warn of an impending stroke includes: weakness and/or numbness of one side of the body or both, sudden confusion, slurred speech or loss of speech or speech that is difficult to comprehend, double vision or loss of vision in one or both eyes, unsteadiness of gait, and severe sudden headache. When the symptoms last only a few minutes, the condition is probably a transient ischaemic attack (TIA). TIAs are often warnings of major strokes, and should never be ignored. Timely treatment may abort a major stroke.

What can be done to help someone who has a Stroke?

Stroke is an emergency. Getting skilled medical attention, preferably in a specialized Stroke Unit, is the step that makes the most difference to the patient’s outcome. Evaluation of the patient begins as soon as the Stroke Unit receives a call for assistance. The highly specialized Stroke Team, which comprises neurologists, neurosurgeons, and other health professionals, provides the rapid evaluation and initiation of treatment for brain attack patients.

What is the treatment for Stroke patients at the hospital?

A detailed history is taken from the patient and/or the family and a detailed examination conducted. Blood samples are usually taken to determine whether there are other associated conditions and to prepare for further treatment. A CT-scan is done as soon as possible to differentiate an ischaemic stroke from a haemorrhage and to rule out other causes. Further studies such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the brain and arteries may also be necessary. Subsequent treatments will be administered depending on the nature of the stroke. These may include clot busters such as TPA, carotid artery angioplasty and stenting. In a Stroke Unit, treatment is guided by protocols incorporated with quality control measures. This encompasses acute stroke care, rehabilitation, treatment of co-morbid diseases such as hypertension and diabetes, and helping the patient to return to community living.

What are the chances of making a full recovery from a Stroke?

Unless the stroke is severe, most patients return to independent living after a period of rehabilitation.

Can Strokes be prevented?

Stroke cannot be completely prevented. But one can minimize risk factors that predispose to stroke. Such risk factors include a high cholesterol level, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and heart disease. Treatment with antiplatelet drugs such as aspirin can reduce the risk of ischaemic stroke.

What are the consequences of Stroke?

Motor weakness and muscle stiffness (called spasticity) are common to varying degrees. In addition there may be double vision or loss of vision, numbness, unsteadiness of gait, memory impairment, language and speech problems and depression.

What can be done for someone who has had a Stroke with some disability?

Rehabilitation programmes can improve motor function, reduce muscle stiffness and restore ambulation. Care-givers will also be trained and given counselling. Join a stroke support group to get current information on stroke, raise stroke awareness, and to get help.