Best Stroke Specialist in Lalbaugh
A brain stroke, commonly known simply as a stroke, occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die, making prompt treatment crucial to minimize brain damage and potential complications. Understanding the symptoms and treatment options for a stroke can save lives and improve outcomes for those affected. Dr Tejas P Vaja is Best Stroke Specialist in Lalbaugh.
Symptoms of a Brain Stroke
Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke is essential for timely intervention. The acronym F.A.S.T. is a useful tool for remembering the sudden signs of stroke:- Face drooping: One side of the face may droop or become numb. Ask the person to smile; if one side of their smile is uneven, this could be a sign of a stroke.
- Arm weakness: One arm may feel weak or numb. Ask the person to raise both arms; if one arm drifts downward, it could indicate a stroke.
- Speech difficulty: Speech may become slurred or difficult to understand. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence; if they have trouble speaking, it may be a stroke. Dr Tejas P Vaja is Best Stroke Specialist in Lalbaugh.
- Time to call emergency services: If someone shows any of these symptoms, call emergency services immediately. Time is critical. Other symptoms can include sudden numbness or weakness in the leg, confusion, trouble seeing in one or both eyes, difficulty walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, and a severe headache with no known cause.
- Ischemic Stroke: This is the most common type, accounting for about 87% of all strokes. It occurs when a blood clot blocks or narrows an artery leading to the brain. Clots often form in arteries damaged by plaque buildup, a condition known as atherosclerosis.
- Hemorrhagic Stroke: This type occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, leading to bleeding in or around the brain. Causes can include high blood pressure, aneurysms, and arteriovenous malformations. Dr Tejas P Vaja is Best Stroke Specialist in Lalbaugh.
- A third, less common type is the Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA), often called a mini-stroke. TIAs are brief episodes of stroke-like symptoms that last only a few minutes but are a serious warning sign for future strokes.
Treatment Options for Brain Stroke
Effective stroke treatment depends on the type of stroke and the time elapsed since symptoms began. Immediate Treatments Ischemic Stroke:- Intravenous Thrombolysis: The administration of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) within 4.5 hours of symptom onset can dissolve the blood clot and restore blood flow. This treatment significantly improves the chances of recovery if given promptly.
- Endovascular Procedures: For patients who cannot receive TPA or for large clots, doctors may use mechanical thrombectomy. This procedure involves threading a catheter through an artery to the site of the blockage and physically removing the clot. This is often performed up to 24 hours after symptom onset. Dr Tejas P Vaja is Best Stroke Specialist in Lalbaugh.
- Emergency Measures: Controlling bleeding and reducing pressure in the brain are critical. This may involve medications to lower blood pressure, manage intracranial pressure, prevent seizures, and counteract blood thinners.
- Surgical Interventions: Procedures might include surgical clipping, coiling, or removing a hematoma to stop the bleeding and relieve pressure on the brain. Long-Term Treatments Rehabilitation:
- Physical Therapy: Helps regain motor skills and muscle strength.
- Occupational Therapy: Assists in relearning daily activities and improving fine motor skills.
- Speech Therapy: Addresses difficulties with speaking, understanding, reading, and writing.
- Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Drugs: Prevent future clots.
- Blood Pressure Medications: Manage hypertension, a major risk factor.
- Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs: Reduce the risk of stroke by managing cholesterol levels. Dr Tejas P Vaja is Best Stroke Specialist in Lalbaugh.
- Diet and Exercise: A healthy diet and regular physical activity can lower the risk of recurrent stroke. Smoking Cessation and Alcohol Moderation: Reducing or eliminating smoking and limiting alcohol intake are crucial.
