🧠 Understanding Stroke:
Types • Symptoms • Diagnosis • Treatments
Time is Brain — Act FAST. Knowledge Saves Lives.
What is a Stroke?
A stroke happens when blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, causing brain cells to die within minutes. It is a medical emergency that can strike anyone, anytime.
Types of Stroke: Ischemic vs Hemorrhagic
Ischemic Stroke (≈87%): Caused by a clot blocking blood flow — often due to thrombosis in brain arteries.
The Critical Role of the Circle of Willis
This circular network of arteries at the base of the brain provides collateral circulation. It can help reroute blood if one vessel is blocked — but anatomical variations are common.
Signs and Symptoms — Act F.A.S.T.
- Face drooping
- Arm weakness or numbness (especially on one side)
- Speech difficulty (slurred or confused)
- Time to call emergency services immediately
Other symptoms: sudden severe headache (common in haemorrhage), vision problems, dizziness, loss of balance, confusion.
Diagnosis: Imaging That Saves Lives
CT Scan (First-Line)
Non-contrast CT quickly rules out bleeding before giving clot-busting drugs.
MRI & MR Angiography (MRA)
More sensitive for early detection and detailed vessel imaging.
Treatment: Time-Sensitive Interventions
Thrombolysis (tPA / Clot Busters)
Given within 4.5 hours (or longer in selected cases with advanced imaging) to dissolve clots in ischemic stroke.
Mechanical Thrombectomy for large vessel occlusions — up to 24 hours in many cases.
Prevention is the Best Medicine
- Control blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol
- Quit smoking
- Healthy diet and regular exercise
- Know your risk factors and family history
🚨 Suspect a Stroke? ACT IMMEDIATELY
CALL EMERGENCY SERVICES NOWDoctors & Healthcare Professionals: Share this with your team and patients. Bookmark current guidelines.
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