To
find out what kind of stroke it is, the doctor will do a type of X-ray called a
of the brain, which can show if there is
bleeding. The doctor may order other tests to find the location of the clot or
bleeding, check for the amount of brain damage, and check for other conditions
that can cause symptoms similar to a stroke.
How is it treated?
For an ischemic stroke, treatment focuses on restoring blood flow to
the brain. If you get to the hospital right away after symptoms begin, doctors
may use a medicine that dissolves blood clots. Research shows that this
medicine can improve recovery from a stroke, especially if given within 90
minutes of the first symptoms.1 Other medicines may be
given to prevent blood clots and control symptoms.
A
hemorrhagic stroke can be hard to treat. Doctors may do
surgery or other treatments to stop bleeding or reduce pressure on the brain.
Medicines may be used to control blood pressure, brain swelling, and other
problems.
After your condition is stable, treatment shifts to
preventing other problems and future strokes. You may need to take a number of
medicines to control conditions that put you at risk for stroke, such as high
blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Some people need to have a
surgery to remove
from the blood vessels that supply the
brain ().
The best way to get
better after a stroke is to start
. The goal of stroke rehab is to help you
regain skills you lost or to make the most of your remaining abilities. Stroke
rehab can also help you take steps to prevent future strokes. You have the
greatest chance of regaining abilities during the first few months after a
stroke. So it is important to start rehab soon after a stroke and do a little
every day.
Can you prevent a stroke?
After you have had a
stroke, you are at risk for having another one. You can make some important
lifestyle changes that can reduce your risk of stroke and improve your overall
health.
Treat any health problems you have
- Manage high blood pressure or high cholesterol by working with your doctor.
- Manage diabetes. Keep your blood sugar levels within a target range.
- If your doctor recommends you take aspirin or a blood thinner, take it. This can help prevent having a stroke.
- Take your medicine exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.