Acute Stroke

A stroke is a sudden interruption in blood supply to the brain, leading to the death of brain cells. It can be classified into two distinct categories: ischemic stroke, which is caused by a blockage in a blood vessel supplying the brain, and hemorrhagic stroke, which occurs from a ruptured or leaking blood vessel in the brain.

What is Acute Stroke?

Acute stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when there is a sudden disruption in the blood supply to the brain. It is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide, making it crucial to understand the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options available. Sudden onset numbness or weakness in an arm or leg, facial droop, difficulties speaking or comprehending speech, disorientation, issues with balance or coordination, and loss of vision are all possible signs and symptoms of a stroke.

What are the types of Acute Strokes?

There are two main types of stroke:

1. Ischemic
2. Hemorrhagic

Understanding the key differences between these two types is essential for effective management and treatment.

Ischemic Stroke

An ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks a blood artery, cutting off the blood flow to a specific area of the brain. Without a consistent blood supply, brain cells begin to die, leading to various neurological symptoms. Heart disease, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure are just a few of the problems that might put someone at risk of having an ischemic stroke. Additionally, ischemic strokes can be divided into two groups:

1. Thrombotic Stroke: This type of ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot forms within an artery that supplies blood to the brain. It is often associated with atherosclerosis, a condition characterised by the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries.
2. Embolic Stroke: An embolic stroke happens when a blood clot or debris travels from another part of the body, typically the heart, to the brain, blocking a blood vessel.

Hemorrhagic Stroke

When an artery in the brain bleeds, it causes a hemorrhagic stroke. Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and aneurysms are two examples of arteries that can develop abnormally and rupture. The pressure inside the skull increases as a result of the blood that seeps into the brain after a blood vessel bleeds, compressing the brain and potentially resulting in lifelong brain damage. There are two primary types of hemorrhagic strokes:

1. Intracerebral Haemorrhage: This type of stroke occurs when a blood artery within the brain bursts, leading to bleeding directly into the brain tissue.
2. Subarachnoid Haemorrhage: Subarachnoid haemorrhage involves bleeding in the space between the brain and the surrounding membranes.

What are the Causes and Risk Factors of Acute Stroke?

Understanding the risk factors associated with stroke is essential for prevention and early detection. Some common risk factors include:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Elevated blood pressure is a leading cause of stroke, as it can damage blood vessels over time, making them more prone to rupture or blockage.
• Smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for stroke, as it damages blood vessels and increases the likelihood of clot formation.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes have a higher risk of stroke, primarily because the condition can damage blood vessels and lead to atherosclerosis.
• High Cholesterol: Elevated levels of cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis, increasing the risk of ischemic stroke.
• Atrial Fibrillation: This heart rhythm disorder can cause blood clots to form in the heart, which can then travel to the brain and cause an embolic stroke.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of stroke, as it often leads to other risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes.
• Family History: A family history of stroke may indicate a genetic predisposition to the condition.
• Age: Stroke risk increases with age, with the majority of strokes occurring in individuals over the age of 65.

Recognising the Symptoms of Acute Stroke

Depending on the type of stroke and the part of the brain that is damaged, the symptoms of an acute stroke may vary. However, there are several warning signs to be aware of, and recognising them immediately is essential if you want to seek help promptly. Here are some common signs of an acute stroke:

1. Sudden numbness or weakness, often affecting one side of the body.
2. Sudden and severe headache, accompanied by nausea, a stiff neck, pain in the face, and pain behind the eyes.
3. Difficulty walking, loss of balance, or coordination.
4. Blurred or double vision.
5. Speech difficulties or trouble comprehending what others are saying

How is Acute Stroke Assessed and Diagnosed at Apollo Hospital, Karnataka?

When a person arrives at the hospital with suspected stroke symptoms, healthcare providers conduct a series of assessments to determine the type of stroke and its severity. These assessments may include:

• Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination helps healthcare professionals evaluate the patient’s neurological status.
• Imaging Tests: Imaging tests, such as CT scans and MRIs, are used to visualise the brain and identify any bleeding or blockages. CT scans are particularly useful for distinguishing between ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): An ECG may be performed to detect abnormal heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation, which can increase the risk of embolic strokes.
• Electroencephalogram (EEG): An EEG records electrical activity in the brain and is used to rule out seizures.

Blood testing may also be carried out:

• A Complete Blood Count (CBC) can be used to identify infections, anaemia, or blood clotting problems.
• Serum electrolytes can help detect any renal issues and rule out any electrolyte problems that could be causing stroke-like symptoms.
• A blood glucose test will be conducted to determine low blood sugar, a common side effect of diabetic treatments that can trigger stroke-like symptoms.
• Cholesterol testing will determine if elevated cholesterol levels contributed to the stroke.

How is Acute Stroke Treated at Apollo Hospital, Karnataka?

The stroke can be treated with a combination of the following treatment techniques:

1. Medication – Depending on the type of stroke, thrombolytic medications, antiplatelet medications, and anticoagulants are used to dissolve blood clots and prevent them from clotting again in the brain.
2. Surgery – Mechanical thrombectomy, also known as clot removal or blood vessel repair, may be necessary.
3. Rehabilitation – Individuals can recover from the effects of a stroke with the assistance of physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
4. Lifestyle Changes – Quitting smoking, making dietary adjustments, and engaging in regular exercise can all help reduce the risk of experiencing another stroke.
5. Cognitive Therapies – Cognitive therapy can be employed after a stroke to assist individuals in regaining cognitive functions, including memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills.

Treatment of Ischemic Stroke

The primary goal of ischemic stroke treatment at Apollo Hospital in Karnataka is to restore blood flow to the brain. Thrombolytics, which must be administered within 4.5 hours of the stroke’s onset, are used to dissolve blood clots. Additionally, there are surgical procedures that can open or widen arteries, including:

• Mechanical thrombectomy
• Carotid Stenting
• Angioplasty

Treatment of Haemorrhagic Stroke

Although hemorrhagic stroke is treated differently from ischemic stroke, our team uses the following surgical techniques to treat hemorrhagic stroke:

• Aneurysm Clipping
• Aneurysm Embolisation (coiling)
• Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) Removal

Complications of Acute Stroke

The type of stroke, the therapies utilised, the patient’s medical history, and other factors all play a significant role in the side effects of stroke therapy. Our doctors can provide further information about potential side effects and how to manage or even avoid them.

Treatment at Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka

Acute stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and intervention. Apollo Hospital’s state-of-the-art Neuro Intervention unit is fully equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic and imaging technology, as well as the most recent treatment alternatives to assist all types of stroke patients. Our highly competent team of neurosurgeons, interventional neurologists, critical care specialists, and qualified nurses follows globally recognised procedures and integrated treatment pathways. With advancements in stroke treatment and rehabilitation, many individuals can regain their independence and quality of life after a stroke.