Stroke Treatment

How is a Stroke treated?

Stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, leading to brain cell damage. Treatment depends on the type of stroke—ischemic (caused by a blood clot) or hemorrhagic (caused by bleeding)—and how quickly medical care is received. The primary goals are to restore blood flow, prevent further damage, and support recovery.

How are Ischemic strokes treated?

For an ischemic stroke, treatment focuses on restoring blood flow to the brain. This may involve medications called thrombolytics (clot-busters), such as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), which dissolve the clot if given within a few hours of symptom onset. In some cases, a mechanical thrombectomy is performed, where a device is used to physically remove the clot from a large brain artery.

How are Hemorrhagic strokes treated?

For a hemorrhagic stroke, the main goal is to control bleeding and reduce pressure on the brain. Treatment may include medications to lower blood pressure, prevent seizures, or reduce brain swelling. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be needed to repair the blood vessel, remove accumulated blood, or relieve pressure.

What happens after Stroke is treated?

After the immediate stroke has been treated, rehabilitation becomes essential to help the patient regain lost functions. This can include physical therapy to improve movement and strength, occupational therapy to relearn daily activities, speech therapy to address communication difficulties, and psychological support for emotional and cognitive challenges.

Additionally, long-term management involves preventing future strokes by controlling risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, and atrial fibrillation. Medications like antiplatelets (e.g., aspirin) or anticoagulants may be prescribed to reduce the risk of another stroke.

What does Stroke Rehabilitation involve?

Stroke rehabilitation may involve:

• Improving communication through brain stimulation

• Psychological evaluation and treatment

• Physical activities that improve motor skills

Stroke rehabilitation is recommended as soon as 24-48 hours after stroke.

A patient will be strongly advised to lead a healthier lifestyle after suffering a stroke and to make lifestyle and routine changes, such as following a healthy well-balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and being physically active.