FAQS on Stroke Part-2

What are the common symptoms of a stroke?

• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion or trouble understanding speech
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause
• Sudden dizziness or loss of balance or coordination

What is the acronym FAST used to remember stroke symptoms?

The acronym FAST is used to help people remember the key signs of a stroke:

• Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of their face droop?
• Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
• Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or confused?
• Time: If you observe any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Time is of the essence when treating a stroke.

How quickly should someone seek medical attention if they suspect a stroke?

If you or someone you know exhibits any stroke symptoms, call 108 immediately. Every minute counts in treating a stroke, and prompt medical attention can improve the chances of a good outcome.

What tests are used to diagnose a stroke?

Doctors may use a variety of tests to diagnose a stroke, including:

• CT scan: This can help identify bleeding in the brain.
• MRI: This can provide more detailed images of the brain.
• Blood tests: These can help rule out other conditions and assess blood clotting factors.

Can a stroke be diagnosed immediately?

Sometimes, a stroke can be diagnosed immediately based on the symptoms and a physical examination. However, imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of stroke.

What is a CT scan or MRI used for in stroke diagnosis?

CT scans and MRIs are used to visualize the brain and identify any abnormalities, such as bleeding or blood clots, that may be causing the stroke.

Can a blood test help diagnose a stroke?

Blood tests can help rule out other conditions that may be causing similar symptoms to a stroke, such as a heart attack or low blood sugar. They can also help assess blood clotting factors, which can be important in determining the type of stroke and the appropriate treatment.

What is the most important treatment for a stroke?

The most important treatment for a stroke is to restore blood flow to the brain as quickly as possible. This can be done through medications like tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) or surgical procedures like thrombectomy.

What is tissue plasminogen activator (tPA)?

Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is a medication that can dissolve blood clots. It is used to treat ischemic strokes within a certain time window after the onset of symptoms.

When is tPA used for stroke treatment?

tPA is typically used within 4.5 hours of the onset of stroke symptoms. However, in some cases, it may be used up to 24 hours after the onset of symptoms, depending on the specific circumstances.

Are there any risks associated with tPA?

Yes, there are some risks associated with tPA, including bleeding. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before receiving tPA.