How Neurologists Diagnose and Treat Stroke: What You Should Know

Stroke is a medical emergency condition that results when blood supply to the brain is interrupted, causing brain cells to die. It can lead to permanent disability or death if left untreated. Sugam Hospital has specialist neurologists who have access to cutting-edge diagnostic technology and treatment protocols to administer immediate and effective care. Here, in this blog, we will observe how neurologist doctor in Chennai treat and diagnose strokes to recover patients as much as possible.

Detecting The Signs Of Stroke

Early detection of a stroke is crucial for treatment success. The FAST approach is utilized to identify stroke symptoms:

• Face Drooping: One side of the face might droop or become numb.
• Arm Weakness: Weakness or numbness in a single arm.
• Speech Difficulty: Slurred speech or difficulty in speaking.
• Time to Call Emergency: It is necessary to get immediate medical attention.

If you or the person you know experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Early treatment can do a lot to reduce the likelihood of severe complications.

How Neurologists Diagnose Stroke

When the patient arrives at Sugam Hospital with stroke suspect symptoms, our neurologists follow a step-by-step process to make the diagnosis:

Medical History and Physical Examination:

The doctor will examine the history of the patient, including risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, or history of strokes. A neurological examination is conducted to test coordination, reflexes, vision, and speech.

Imaging Tests

• CT Scan (Computed Tomography): A CT scan gives detailed images of the brain to detect any bleeding or obstruction.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): An MRI provides a more detailed image of brain injury and can distinguish between ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.
• Carotid Ultrasound: This test screens for carotid artery blockage, which provides the brain with blood.
• Cerebral Angiography: Contrast is given through injection within the blood vessels to identify abnormalities of the blood vessels in the brain circulation.

Blood Tests Blood work helps to identify clotting time, blood glucose levels, and infection markers, which may affect treatment.

Treatment Options For Stroke

Treatment depends on the cause of the stroke—ischemic (caused by a clot) or hemorrhagic (caused by bleeding in the brain). Sugam Hospital offers cutting-edge stroke management methods to minimize brain damage and facilitate recovery.

1. Ischemic Stroke (Blocked Artery) Treatment

Ischemic strokes result from a clot in an artery blocking blood flow to the brain. Therapy involves restoring the circulation:

• Intravenous Thrombolysis (tPA): A drug, tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), dissolves the clot and is given within 4.5 hours of when the stroke first begins.
• Mechanical Thrombectomy: A less-invasive procedure involving using a catheter to mechanically extract the clot out of the obstructed artery.
• Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Medications: Aspirin or blood thinners are drugs that inhibit clot formation.

2. Hemorrhagic Stroke Treatment (Bleeding in the Brain)

• Hemorrhagic strokes result from a ruptured weakened blood vessel. Treatment involves halting bleeding and relieving pressure on the brain:
• Medications to Reduce Blood Pressure: Hypertension control prevents more bleeding.
• Surgical Procedures: Clipping or coiling aneurysms stops bleeding.
• Craniotomy: In some cases, part of the skull can be removed temporarily to relieve brain swelling.

Post-Stroke Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation from stroke involves a multi-disciplinary strategy, which includes:

• Physiotherapy: Enables the restoration of movement and strength in affected limbs.
• Speech Therapy: Helps overcome speech and swallowing impairment.
• Occupational Therapy: Helps patients relearn daily living activities.
• Lifestyle Changes: Controlling risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes avoids future strokes.

Why Sugam Hospital For Stroke Treatment?

Sugam Hospital provides best-in-class stroke treatment with:

• 24/7 Emergency Neurology Services: Round-the-clock service for stroke patients.
• Advanced Imaging and Diagnostic Facilities: For accurate and timely diagnosis.
• Expert Neurologists and Neurosurgeons: Highly skilled specialists for comprehensive stroke management.
• Personalized Rehabilitation Programs: Individualized recovery programs for each patient.

A stroke may be life-altering, but with quick diagnosis and proper treatment, the outlook is much better. Sugam Hospital aims to provide fast and accurate stroke management for maximum benefit to our patients. If you or a loved one are showing signs of a stroke, don’t delay—seek emergency medical care now.