What is a stroke? Who is most susceptible? What are the symptoms? In this brief overview, you’ll learn about strokes, some treatment options and the importance of various rehabilitation plans that can improve the chances of recovery.
Brain cells are extremely sensitive to oxygen deprivation. During a stroke, brain tissue is literally starving for oxygen, so every minute counts. Stroke response teams must act swiftly to stabilize blood pressure and heart rate, as well as attend to any breathing or other complications. Although there are ways to prevent stroke, there is no known treatment for stroke once it has caused permanent brain injury. All the more reason for swift action at the earliest onset of symptoms.
Lab tests and CT scans guide treatment options
Once a patient is stabilized, a stroke recovery team goes to work. Comprised of specialists from a wide rage of disciplines, they unite their talents and expertise to diagnose the injury and determine the best treatment plan for each patient. Lab tests and state-of-the-art imaging technology—like CT scanners—can help pinpoint the location, type, nature and extent of brain damage.
“Clot-busting” drugs and minimally invasive techniques
Based on their diagnosis, medical specialists may recommend neurointerventional treatments. These minimally invasive techniques use microcatheters to deliver clot-dissolving drugs, perform clot removal and administer other treatment to the tiny damaged vessels of the brain. A variety of other drugs are also being investigated for their potential to reverse damage to brain tissue caused by stroke, thus giving stroke victims greater chances for a faster and more complete recovery. The new techniques allow patients to leave the hospital sooner, recover faster and have a better chance of survival.
Rehabilitation is critical to recovery
After treatment, an acute rehabilitation unit may start a stroke patient on a managed plan of rehabilitation. Prompt rehabilitation is critical because patients with the highest risk for stroke are those who have already suffered one. Early rehabilitation also improves the chances of recovery. Stroke rehab options may include home therapy, adult day services, home outpatient therapy, and long-term care and therapy at a skilled nursing facility.
