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Stroke

What is a stroke?

Brain cell function requires a constant delivery of oxygen and glucose from the bloodstream. A stroke, or cerebrovascular accident (CVA), occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is disrupted, causing brain cells to die. Blood flow can be compromised by a variety of mechanisms.

Blockage of an artery

• Narrowing of the small arteries within the brain can cause a lacunar stroke, (lacune means "empty space"). Blockage of a single arteriole can affect a tiny area of brain causing that tissue to die (infarct).
  
• Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) leading to the brain. There are four major blood vessels that supply the brain with blood. The anterior circulation of the brain that controls most motor  activity, sensation, thought, speech, and emotion is supplied by the carotid arteries.The posterior circulation, which supplies the brainstem and the cerebellum, controlling the automatic parts of brain function and coordination, is supplied by the vertebrobasilar arteries.

If these arteries become narrow as a result of atherosclerosis, plaque orcholesterol, debris can break off and float downstream, clogging the blood supply to a part of the brain. As opposed to lacunar strokes, larger parts of the brain can lose blood supply, and this may produce more symptoms than a lacunar stroke.

• Embolism to the brain from the heart. In some instances blood clots can form within the heart and the potential exists for them to break off and travel (embolize) to the arteries in the brain and cause a stroke.

Rupture of an artery (hemorrhage)

• Cerebral hemorrhage (bleeding within the brain substance). The most common reason to have bleeding within the brain is uncontrolled high blood pressure. Other situations include aneurysms that leak or rupture or arteriovenous malformations (AVM) in which there is an abnormal collection of blood vessels that are fragile and can bleed.

What causes a stroke?

Blockage of an artery

The blockage of an artery in the brain by a clot (thrombosis) is the most common cause of a stroke. The part of the brain that is supplied by the clotted blood vessel is then deprived of blood and oxygen. As a result of the deprived blood and oxygen, the cells of that part of the brain die and the part of the body that it controls stops working. Typically, a cholesterol plaque in a small blood vessel within the brain that has gradually caused blood vessel narrowing ruptures and starts the process of forming a small blood clot.

Risk factors for narrowed blood vessels in the brain are the same as those that cause narrowing blood vessels in the heart and heart attack (myocardial infarction). These risk factors include:

• high blood pressure (hypertension),
  
• high cholesterol,
  
• diabetes, and
  
• smoking.

Embolic stroke

Another type of stroke may occur when a blood clot or a piece of atherosclerotic plaque (cholesterol and calcium deposits on the wall of the inside of the heart or artery) breaks loose, travels through the bloodstream and lodges in an artery in the brain. When blood flow stops, brain cells do not receive the oxygen and glucose they require to function and a stroke occurs. This type of stroke is referred to as an embolic stroke. For example, a blood clot might originally form in the heart chamber as a result of an irregular heart rhythm, such as occurs in atrial fibrillation. Usually, these clots remain attached to the inner lining of the heart, but occasionally they can break off, travel through the blood stream, form a plug (embolism) in a brain artery, and cause a stroke. An embolism can also originate in a large artery (for example, the carotid artery, a major artery in the neck that supplies blood to the brain) and then travel downstream to clog a small artery within the brain.

Cerebral hemorrhage

A cerebral hemorrhage occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and bleeds into the surrounding brain tissue. A cerebral hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain) causes stroke symptoms by depriving blood and oxygen to parts of the brain in a variety of ways. Blood flow is lost to some cells. As well, blood is very irritating and can cause swelling of brain tissue (cerebral edema). Edema and the accumulation of blood from a cerebral hemorrhage increases pressure within the skull and causes further damage by squeezing the brain against the bony skull further decreasing blood flow to brain tissue and cells.

Subarachnoid hemorrhage

In a subarachnoid hemorrhage, blood accumulates in the space beneath the arachnoid membrane that lines the brain. The blood originates from an abnormal blood vessel that leaks or ruptures. Often this is from an aneurysm (an abnormal ballooning out of the wall of the vessel). Subarachnoid hemorrhages usually cause a sudden, severeheadache, nausea, vomiting, light intolerance, and a stiff neck. If not recognized and treated, major neurological consequences, such as coma, and brain death may occur.

Vasculitis

Another rare cause of stroke is vasculitis, a condition in which the blood vessels become inflamed causing decreased blood flow to brain tissue.

Migraine headache

There appears to be a very slight increased occurrence of stroke in people with migraine headache. The mechanism for migraine or vascular headaches includes narrowing of the brain blood vessels. Some migraine headache episodes can even mimic stroke with loss of function of one side of the body or vision or speech problems. Usually, the symptoms resolve as the headache resolves.

What are the risk factors for stroke?

Overall, the most common risk factors for stroke are:

• high blood pressure,
  
• high cholesterol,
  
• smoking,
  
• diabetes and
  
• increasing age.

Heart rhythm disturbances like atrial fibrillation, patent foramen ovale, and heart valve disease can also be the cause.

When strokes occur in younger individuals (less than 50 years old), less common risk factors to be considered include illicit drugs, such as cocaine or amphetamines, ruptured aneurysms, and inherited (genetic) predispositions to abnormal blood clotting.

An example of a genetic predisposition to stroke occurs in a rare condition called homocystinuria, in which there are excessive levels of the chemical homocystine in the body. Scientists are trying to determine whether the non-hereditary occurrence of high levels of homocystine at any age can predispose to stroke.

What is a transient ischemic attack (TIA)?

A transient ischemic attack (TIA, mini-stroke) is a short-lived stroke that gets better and resolves. It is a short-lived episode (less than 24 hours) of temporary impairment if brain function that is caused by a loss of blood supply. A TIA causes a loss of function in the area of the body that is controlled by the portion of the brain affected. The loss of blood supply to the brain is most often caused by a clot that spontaneously forms in a blood vessel within the brain (thrombosis). However, it can also result from a clot that forms elsewhere in the body, dislodges from that location, and travels to lodge in an artery of the brain (emboli). A spasm and, rarely, a bleed are other causes of a TIA. Many people refer to a TIA as a "mini-stroke."

Some TIAs develop slowly, while others develop rapidly. By definition, all TIAs resolve within 24 hours. Strokes take longer to resolve than TIAs, and with strokes, complete function may never return and reflect a more permanent and serious problem. Although most TIAs often last only a few minutes, all TIAs should be evaluated with the same urgency as a stroke in an effort to prevent recurrences and/or strokes. TIAs can occur once, multiple times, or precede a permanent stroke. A transient ischemic attack should be considered an emergency because there is no guarantee that the situation will resolve and function will return.

A TIA from a clot in the blood vessel that supplies the retina of the eye can cause temporary visual loss (amaurosis fugax), which is often described as the sensation of a curtain coming down. A TIA that involves the carotid artery (the largest blood vessel supplying the brain) can produce problems with movement or sensation on one side of the body, which is the side opposite to the actual blockage. An affected patient may experience temporary double vision, dizziness (vertigo), loss of balance, one sidedweakness or complete paralysis of the arm, leg, face, or one whole side of the body or be unable to speak or understand commands.

What is the impact of strokes?

In the United States, stroke is the third largest cause of death (behind heart diseaseand all forms of cancer). The cost of strokes is not just measured in the billions of dollars lost in work, hospitalization, and the care of survivors in nursing homes. The major cost or impact of a stroke is the loss of independence that occurs in 30% of the survivors. For some individuals, what was a self-sustaining and an enjoyable lifestyle prior to the stroke, many may lose most of their quality of life after a stroke. Family members and friends may have their lives altered as they find themselves in the new role as caregivers.

What are stroke symptoms?

When brain cells are deprived of oxygen, they cease to perform their usual tasks. The symptoms that follow a stroke depend on the area of the brain that has been affected and the amount of brain tissue damage.

Small strokes may not cause any symptoms, but can still damage brain tissue. These strokes that do not cause symptoms are referred to as silent strokes. According to The U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), these are the five major signs of stroke:

1. Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body. The loss of voluntary movement and/or sensation may be complete or partial. There may an associated tingling sensation in the affected area.
   
2. Sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding. Sometimes weakness in the muscles of the face can cause drooling.
   
3. Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
   
4. Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
   
5. Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

What should be done if you suspect you or someone else is having a stroke?

If any of the symptoms mentioned above suddenly appear, immediate emergency medical attention should be sought. The first action should be to activate the emergency medical system in your area (call 911 if it is available). The goal is to get the stroke victim to a hospital as quickly as possible to confirm the diagnosis. An urgent medical decision is necessary in the emergency room to determine whether thrombolytic or clot busting drugs can potentially reverse the stroke situation. There is a very limited window of opportunity from the onset of symptoms to when this therapy can be used. If delays occur, the opportunity to intervene is lost.

The first priority is ensuring that the ambulance arrives as soon as possible since first responders, EMTs and paramedics may be able to help make the diagnosis and alert the hospital about the stoke victim's situation.

While waiting for the ambulance, the following first aid suggestions may be helpful:

• The affected person should lie flat to promote an optimal blood flow to the brain.
  
• If drowsiness, unresponsiveness, or nausea are present, the person should be placed in the rescue position on their side to prevent choking should vomiting occur.
  
• Although aspirin plays a major role in stroke prevention (see below), once the symptoms of a stroke begin, it is generally recommended that additional aspirin not be taken until the patient receives medical attention. If stroke is of the bleeding type, aspirin could theoretically make matters worse. Moreover, patients with stroke may have swallowing difficulties and may choke on the pill.

Three commands, known as the Cincinnati Prehospital Stroke Scale (CPSS), may help to determine if the potential for stroke exists. Ask the patient to do the following:

1. Smile: the face should move symmetrically
2. Raise both arms: looking for weakness on one side of the body
3. Speak a simple sentence

If a potential stroke victim cannot perform these tasks, 911 should be called to activated the emergency medical system

How is a stroke diagnosed?

A stroke is a medical emergency. Anyone suspected of having a stroke should be taken to a medical facility immediately for evaluation and treatment. Initially, the doctor takes a medical history from the patient if possible or from others familiar with the patient if they are available. Important questions include what the symptoms were, when they began, if they were getting better, worse or staying the same. Past medical history adds important information looking for risk factors for stroke and for medications that can cause bleeding (for example, warfarin [Coumadin], clopidogrel [Plavix], prasugrel [Effient]).

Physical examination is key in confirming the parts of the body that have stopped functioning and may help determine what part of the brain has lost its blood supply. If available, a neurologist, a doctor specializing in disorders of the nervous system and diseases of the brain, can assist in the diagnosis and management of stroke patients.

Just because a person has slurred speech or weakness on one side of the body does not necessarily signal the occurrence of a stroke. There are many other possibilities that can be responsible for these symptoms. Other conditions that can mimic a stroke include:

• brain tumors,
  
• brain abscess (a collection of pus in the brain caused by bacteria or a fungus),
  
• migraine headache,
  
• bleeding in the brain either spontaneously or from trauma,
  
• meningitis or encephalitis,
  
• an overdose of certain medications, or
  
• an electrolyte imbalance in the body. Abnormal concentrations (too high or too low) of sodium, calcium, or glucose in the body may also cause changes in the nervous system that can mimic a stroke.

In the acute stroke evaluation, many things will occur at the same time. As the physician is taking the history and performing the physical examination, nursing staff will begin monitoring the patient's vital signs, performing blood tests, and performing an electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG).

Part of the physical examination that is becoming standardized is the use of a stroke scale. The American Heart Association has published a guide to the examination of the nervous system to help health care practitioners determine the severity of a stroke and whether aggressive intervention may be warranted.

There is a narrow time frame to intervene in an acute stroke with medications to reverse the loss of blood supply to part of the brain (please see TPA below). The patient needs to be appropriately evaluated and stabilized before any clot-busting drugs can be potentially utilized.

Computerized tomography: In order to help determine the cause of a suspected stroke, a special X-ray test called a CT scan of the brain is often performed. A CT scan is used to look for bleeding or masses within the brain that may cause symptoms that mimic a stroke, but are not treated with thrombolytic therapy with TPA.

MRI scan: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses magnetic waves rather than X-rays to image the brain. The MRI images are much more detailed than those from CT, but due to the length of time to do the test and lack of availability of the machines in many hospitals, is not a first line test in stroke. While a CT scan may be completed within a few minutes, an MRI may take more than an hour to complete. An MRI may be performed later in the course of patient care if finer details are required for further medical decision making. People with certain medical devices (for example, pacemakers) or other metals within their body, cannot be subjected to the powerful magnetic field of an MRI.

Other methods of MRI technology: An MRI scan can also be used to specifically view the blood vessels non-invasively (without using tubes or injections), a procedure called an MRA (magnetic resonance angiogram). Another MRI method called diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) is being offered in some medical centers. This technique can detect the area of abnormality minutes after the blood flow to a part of the brain has ceased, whereas a conventional MRI may not detect a stroke until up to six hours after it has started, and a CT scan sometimes cannot detect it until it is 12 to 24 hours old. Again, this is not a first line test in the evaluation of a stroke patient, when time is of the essence.

Computerized tomography with angiography: Using dye that is injected into a vein in the arm, images of the blood vessels in the brain can give information regarding aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations. Moreover, other abnormalities of brain blood flow may be evaluated. With faster machines and better technology, CT angiography may be done at the same time as the initial CT scan to look for a blood clot within an artery in the brain.

CT and MRI images often require a radiologist to interpret their results.

Conventional angiogram: An angiogram is another test that is sometimes used to view the blood vessels. A long catheter tube is inserted into an artery in the groin or arm and threaded into the arteries of the brain. Dye is injected while X-rays are taken and information can be obtained about blood flow in the brain. The decision to perform CT angiography versus conventional angiography depends upon a patient's specific situation and the technical capabilities of the hospital.

Carotid Doppler ultrasound: A carotid Doppler ultrasound is a non-invasive test that uses sound waves to look for narrowing or stenosis and decreased blood flow in the carotid arteries (the major arteries in the front of the neck that supply blood to the brain).

Heart tests: Certain tests to evaluate heart function are often performed in stroke patients to search for the source of an embolism.Electrocardiograms (EKG or ECG) may be used to detect abnormal heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation that are associated with embolic stroke.

Ambulatory rhythm monitoring may be considered if the patient complains of palpitations or passing out episodes (syncope) and the doctor cannot find reason for it on the EKG. The patient can wear a Holter monitor for 1-2 days and sometimes longer looking fro a potential electrical conduction problem with the heart.

Echocardiograms or ultrasounds of the heart can help evaluate the structure and function of the heart including the heart muscle, valves and the motion of the heart chamber when the heart beats. As well, specifically for stroke patients, this test may be able to find blood clots within the heart and the presence of a patent foramen ovale, both potential causes of stroke.

Blood tests: In the acute situation, when the patient is in the midst of a stroke, blood tests are done to check for anemia, kidney and liver function, electrolyte abnormalities and blood clotting function.

In other situations, when time is not of the essence, similar blood tests may be done. In addition, screening test for inflammation may be considered including an ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C-reactive protein). These are non specific tests that may give direction to medical care.

What is the treatment of a stroke?

Tissue plasminogen activator (TPA)

There is opportunity to use alteplase (TPA) as a clot-buster drug to dissolve the blood clot that is causing the stroke. There is a narrow window of opportunity to use this drug. The earlier that it is given, the better the result and the less potential for the complication of bleeding into the brain.

Present American Heart Association guidelines recommend that if used, TPA must be given within 4 1/2  hours after the onset of symptoms. for patients who waken from sleep with symptoms of stroke, the clock starts when they were last seen in a normal state.

TPA is injected into a vein in the arm but, the time frame for its use may be extended to six hours if it is dripped directly into the blood vessel that is blocked requiring angiography, which is performed by an interventional radiologist. Not all hospitals have access to this technology.

TPA may reverse stroke symptoms in more than one-third of patients, but may also cause bleeding in 6% patients, potentially making the stroke worse.

For posterior circulation strokes that involve the vertebrobasilar system, the time frame for treatment with TPA may be extended even further to 18 hours.

Heparin and aspirin

Drugs to thin the blood (anticoagulation; for example, heparin) are also sometimes used in treating stroke patients in the hopes of improving the patient's recovery. It is unclear, however, whether the use of anticoagulation improves the outcome from the current stroke or simply helps to prevent subsequent strokes (see below). In certain patients, aspirin given after the onset of a stroke does have a small, but measurable effect on recovery. The treating doctor will determine the medications to be used based upon a patient's specific needs.

Managing other Medical Problems

Blood pressure will be tightly controlled often using intravenous medication to prevent stroke symptoms from progressing. This is true whether the stroke is ischemic or hemorrhagic.

Supplemental oxygen is often provided.

In patients with diabetes, the blood sugar (glucose) level is often elevated after a stroke. Controlling the glucose level in these patients may minimize the size of a stroke.

Patients who have suffered a transient ischemic attacks, the patient may be discharged with blood pressure and cholesterol medications even if the blood pressure and cholesterol levels are within acceptable levels. Smoking cessation is mandatory.

Rehabilitation

When a patient is no longer acutely ill after a stroke, the health care staff focuses on maximizing the individuals functional abilities. This is most often done in an inpatient rehabilitation hospital or in a special area of a general hospital. Rehabilitation can also take place at a nursing facility.

The rehabilitation process can include some or all of the following:

1. speech therapy to relearn talking and swallowing;
   
2. occupational therapy to regain as much function dexterity in the arms and hands as possible;
    
3. physical therapy to improve strength and walking; and
   
4. family education to orient them in caring for their loved one at home and the challenges they will face.

The goal is for the patient to resume as many, if not all, of their pre-stroke activities and functions. Since a stroke involves the permanent loss of brain cells, a total return to the patient's pre-stroke status is not necessarily a realistic goal in many cases. However, many stroke patients can return to vibrant independent lives.

Depending upon the severity of the stroke, some patients are transferred from the acute care hospital setting to a skilled nursing facility to be monitored and continue physical and occupational therapy.

Many times, home health providers can assess the home living situation and make recommendations to ease the transition home. Unfortunately, some stroke patients have such significant nursing needs that they cannot be met by relatives and friends and long-term nursing home care may be required. 

What complications can occur after a stroke?

A stroke can become worse despite an early arrival at the hospital and appropriate medical treatment. Progression of symptoms may be due to brain swelling or bleeding into the brain tissue.

It is not unusual for a stroke and a heart attack to occur at the same time or in very close proximity to each other.

During the acute illness, swallowing may be affected. The weakness that affects the arm, leg, and side of the face can also impact the muscles of swallowing. A stroke that causes slurred speech seems to predispose the patient to abnormal swallowing mechanics. Should food and saliva enter the trachea instead of the esophagus when eating or swallowing, pneumonia or a lung infection can occur. Abnormal swallowing can also occur independently of slurred speech.

Because a stroke often results in immobility, blood clots can develop in a leg vein (deep vein thrombosis). This poses a risk for a clot to travel upwards to and lodge in the lungs - a potentially life-threatening situation (pulmonary embolism). There are a number of ways in which the treating physician can help prevent these leg vein clots. Prolonged immobility can also lead to pressure sores (a breakdown of the skin, called decubitus ulcers), which can be prevented by frequent repositioning of the patient by the nurse or other caretakers.

Stroke patients often have some problem with depression as part of the recovery process, which needs to be recognized and treated.

The prognosis following a stroke is related to the severity of the stroke and how much of the brain has been damaged. Some patients return to a near-normal condition with minimal awkwardness or speech defects. Many stroke patients are left with permanent problems such as hemiplegia (weakness on one side of the body), aphasia (difficulty or the inability to speak), or incontinence of the bowel and/or bladder. A significant number of persons become unconscious and die following a major stroke.

If a stroke has been massive or devastating to a person's ability to think or function, the family is left with some very difficult decisions. In these cases, it is sometimes advisable to limit further medical intervention. It is often appropriate for the doctor and the patient's family to discuss and implement orders to not resuscitate the patient in the case of a cardiac arrest, since the quality of life for the patient would be so poor. In many cases, this decision is made somewhat easier if the patient has had a discussion with family or loved ones before an illness has occurred.

What can be done to prevent a stroke?

Risk factor reduction

High blood pressure: The possibility of suffering a stroke can be markedly decreased by controlling the risk factors. The most important risk factor for stroke is high blood pressure. When a person's blood pressure is persistently too high, roughly greater than 130/85, the risk of a stroke increases in proportion to the degree by which the blood pressure is elevated. Managing high blood pressure so that it is well controlled and in the normal range decreases the chances of a stroke.

Smoking: An important stroke risk factor is cigarette smoking or other tobacco use. Chemicals in cigarettes are associated with developing atherosclerosis or narrowing of the arteries in the body. This narrowing can involve the large carotid arteries as well as smaller arteries within the brain. Smoking is also a major risk factor in heart disease and artery disease.

Diabetes: Diabetes causes the small vessels to close prematurely. When these blood vessels close in the brain, small (lacunar) strokes may occur. Good control of blood sugar is important in decreasing the risk of stroke in people with diabetes.

High cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol and/or triglycerides in the bloodstream are risk factors for a stroke due to the eventual blockage of blood vessels (atherosclerosis) and plaque formation. A healthy diet and medications can help normalize an elevated blood cholesterol level.

Blood thinner/warfarin: An irregular heart beat called atrial fibrillation whereby the upper chambers of the heart do not beat in a coordinated fashion can cause blood clots to form inside the heart. These can break off and travel or embolize to blood vessels in the brain blocking blood flow and causing a stroke. Warfarin (Coumadin) is a blood "thinner" that prevents the blood from clotting. This medication is often used in patients with atrial fibrillation to decrease this risk. Warfarin is also sometimes used to prevent the recurrence of a stroke in other situations, such as with certain other heart conditions and conditions in which the blood has a tendency to clot on its own (hypercoagulable states). Warfarin dosing is monitored by periodic blood tests to measure INR (international normalized ration) which assess how quickly the patient's blood clots. Aspirin may also be considered for anticoagulation in atrial fibrillation.

Antiplatelet therapy: Many TIA and stroke patients may benefit from "antiplatelet" drugs that can decrease clotting risk and potentially reduce their risk of suffering another cerebrovascular event. These medicines act on platelets to decrease their stickiness and reduce the tendency to clot blood. The side effect is an increased risk of bleeding. Aspirin is the most commonly prescribed medication in this group. If the patient develops TIA or stroke symptoms while taking aspirin, other anti-platelet medicationsmay be considered including clopidogrel (Plavix), prasugrel (Effient), and dipyridamole (Persantine).

Carotid endarterectomy: In many cases, a person may suffer a TIA or a stroke that is caused by the narrowing or of the carotid arteries (the major arteries in the neck that supply blood to the brain). If left untreated, patients with these conditions have a higher risk of experiencing a major stroke in the future. An operation that cleans out the carotid artery and restores normal blood flow is known as a carotid endarterectomy. This procedure has been shown to markedly reduce the incidence of a subsequent stroke. In patients who have a narrowed carotid artery, but no symptoms, this operation may be indicated in order to prevent the occurrence of a first stroke.

What is in the future for stroke treatment?

New medications are also being tested that help slow the degeneration of the nerve cells that are deprived of oxygen during a stroke. These drugs are referred to as "neuroprotective" agents, an example of which is sipatrigine. Another example is chlormethiazole, which works by modifying the expression of genes within the brain. (Genes produce proteins that determine an individual's makeup.)

Finally, stem cells, which have the potential to develop into a variety of different organs, are being used to try to replace brain cells damaged by a previous stroke. In many academic medical centers, some of these experimental agents may be offered in the setting of a clinical trial. While new therapies for the treatment of patients after a stroke are on the horizon, they are not yet perfect and may not restore complete function to a person who has had a stroke.

Stroke At A Glance

• Stroke is the sudden death of brain cells due to lack of oxygen.
  
• Stroke is caused by the blockage of blood flow or rupture of an artery to the brain.
  
• Sudden tingling, weakness, or paralysis on one side of the body or difficulty with balance, speaking, swallowing, or vision can be a symptom of a stroke.
  
• Any person suspected of having a stroke or TIA should present for emergency care immediately
  
• Clot-busting drugs like TPA can be used to reverse a stroke, but the time frame for their use is very narrow. Patients need to present for care as soon as possible so that TPA therapy can be considered.
  
• Stroke prevention involves minimizing risk factors, such as controlling high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, tobacco abuse, and diabetes.

What can be done to prevent a stroke?

Risk factor reduction

High blood pressure: The possibility of suffering a stroke can be markedly decreased by controlling the risk factors. The most important risk factor for stroke is high blood pressure. When a person's blood pressure is persistently too high, roughly greater than 130/85, the risk of a stroke increases in proportion to the degree by which the blood pressure is elevated. Managing high blood pressure so that it is well controlled and in the normal range decreases the chances of a stroke.

Smoking: An important stroke risk factor is cigarette smoking or other tobacco use. Chemicals in cigarettes are associated with developing atherosclerosis or narrowing of the arteries in the body. This narrowing can involve the large carotid arteries as well as smaller arteries within the brain. Smoking is also a major risk factor in heart disease and artery disease.

Diabetes: Diabetes causes the small vessels to close prematurely. When these blood vessels close in the brain, small (lacunar) strokes may occur. Good control of blood sugar is important in decreasing the risk of stroke in people with diabetes.

High cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol and/or triglycerides in the bloodstream are risk factors for a stroke due to the eventual blockage of blood vessels (atherosclerosis) and plaque formation. A healthy diet and medications can help normalize an elevated blood cholesterol level.

Blood thinner/warfarin: An irregular heart beat called atrial fibrillation whereby the upper chambers of the heart do not beat in a coordinated fashion can cause blood clots to form inside the heart. These can break off and travel or embolize to blood vessels in the brain blocking blood flow and causing a stroke. Warfarin (Coumadin) is a blood "thinner" that prevents the blood from clotting. This medication is often used in patients with atrial fibrillation to decrease this risk. Warfarin is also sometimes used to prevent the recurrence of a stroke in other situations, such as with certain other heart conditions and conditions in which the blood has a tendency to clot on its own (hypercoagulable states). Warfarin dosing is monitored by periodic blood tests to measure INR (international normalized ration) which assess how quickly the patient's blood clots. Aspirin may also be considered for anticoagulation in atrial fibrillation.

Antiplatelet therapy: Many TIA and stroke patients may benefit from "antiplatelet" drugs that can decrease clotting risk and potentially reduce their risk of suffering another cerebrovascular event. These medicines act on platelets to decrease their stickiness and reduce the tendency to clot blood. The side effect is an increased risk of bleeding. Aspirin is the most commonly prescribed medication in this group. If the patient develops TIA or stroke symptoms while taking aspirin, other anti-platelet medicationsmay be considered including clopidogrel (Plavix), prasugrel (Effient), and dipyridamole (Persantine).

Carotid endarterectomy: In many cases, a person may suffer a TIA or a stroke that is caused by the narrowing or of the carotid arteries (the major arteries in the neck that supply blood to the brain). If left untreated, patients with these conditions have a higher risk of experiencing a major stroke in the future. An operation that cleans out the carotid artery and restores normal blood flow is known as a carotid endarterectomy. This procedure has been shown to markedly reduce the incidence of a subsequent stroke. In patients who have a narrowed carotid artery, but no symptoms, this operation may be indicated in order to prevent the occurrence of a first stroke.

Stroke - Symptoms Experienced (PATIENT'S DISCUSS)

I had a lacunar stroke in the pons area of the brain stem. It affected my balance plus many other things. When I had the stroke on Feb. 8, 2007, it felt like a couple of small firecrackers had gone off in my head. I noticed that my balance was affected immediately. I could still walk and function, but it was like I was drunk. I drove myself to the ER (not recommended) where they did a CT scan. Nothing showed up. After a while, they sent me home. Five days later, I went to my regular physician who ordered an MRI. The stroke showed up on the MRI. Thankfully, it was small. I still suffer from symptoms even though I have had four months of physical therapy (PT). I have some numbness in my left arm and a little drooping on the left side of my mouth. Occasionally, I have what my husband and I call “spells.” I have a tingling around my scalp. The doctor said it was caused by high blood pressure even though I was on medication. I was put on Plavix and Zocor. Since the stroke, I've had another TIA where my blood pressure spiked to 223/122. I had to go to the ER for an IV to bring it down. I had some of the same symptoms as with the stroke, but they did go away. My dad had several strokes, one of which was severe. I must have inherited some of his tendency for strokes.Published: December 30 ::

Comment from: Jenmlj, 25-34 Female (Patient)

I was 25 weeks pregnant with my son. I woke up with numbness and weakness on my left side. I had a droopy mouth and eye. I went to the emergency room. They needed to make sure I could have an MRI because of the pregnancy, so they sent me home in the meantime. After me calling for two days, they said to come in for an MRI. I had the MRI, and they found the clot. I spent the next eight weeks in the hospital. I went home on Heparin until my son was born and then switched to warfarin. I was taken off the thinners since it was thought I had the stroke from getting CMV while pregnant. Eight months later, I was at work when I started dropping everything. My numbness had also been extreme that day, so I went to the emergency room where I was given a baby asprin and sent to the city with a driver. Upon arrival, I had an MRI and discovered a second clot. Through testing, they figured out I'm protein C deficient. I’m on warfarin for life now. Here's the kicker: I was 26 and 28 respectively when I had my strokes. My memory and speech are warped. I'm so tired of the tingles.Published: December 30 ::

I was at work when I felt very dizzy and felt that I couldn't stand up for more than a second. So I asked my boss if I could go to the emergency yet I couldn't drive so I waited for my husband. The doctors asked me what I had so I told them my dizziness and numbness on my right side, by then I had a headache that wasn't too bad. After four hours, they didn't find a reason why I should stay. They thought it was a migraine, so I went home. The next day, I woke up with my right side of my body immobile and my speech slurred, so I had another visit to the emergency room. They said it was just stress. Again I was sent home, and five days later, I went to my general doctor and he told me to go again. So I did, and I was diagnosed with a stroke. But because I am 29-year-old female, they didn't think I was having a stroke.Published: July 08 ::

Comment from: shortylil10, 25-34 Female (Patient)

Just before I turned 25, I had a stroke. I was working at a fast-food place and my shift was two hours from ending when I started feeling dizzy. I didn't think anything of it then. It went away, but I couldn't see from my left eye. I could not read the left side of the tickets. I let my manager know that I couldn't see, and I thought maybe in a couple of seconds I would regain my sight. My sight returned after a couple of minutes, but then I lost feeling in my arm and then all of my face.Published: December 30 ::

Comment from: Angel1172, 35-44 Female (Patient)

I was at work the moment of my stroke. I was booking a flight for a customer and I asked her kindly "may I place your call on hold for a brief moment?" I put her on hold then sat still not moving nothing. I couldn’t remember where I was or what I was doing almost as if I was losing consciousness, but someone called 911 and they took me to the hospital and they said I had a stroke from a clot. I had slurred speech loss of memory sleep apnea couldn’t see properly couldn’t walk or stand for long periods of time. I was in rehabilitation for about 1yr. I got out of rehab and went back to my job and then left for Texas. God has been good to me and the people around me that help me to be where I am today is all because of God. I don’t sleep very well today one side of my body gets numb and tingly to this day. I don’t know why.Published: October 16 ::

I awoke with really violent pains over the top of my head. I tripped at every step with my left foot. Voices sounded far away and hollow. The next day I became very confused and lost half my sight, so I was bumping into everything and everyone. I couldn't see anything to the left. I apologized for bumping into a wheelchair and then bumped into the pusher. I could only read the last few letters of long words, I gathered 'ion' must be 'reception.' Following a nurse who turned left I went straight on until she called me to go 'this way'. I couldn't stand up for hours but did not lose consciousness.T he hospital doctor said my BP was 'way out of control' My left side was very weak and I couldn't raise my left leg. With stroke 4 I lost half my hearing in both ears, and I have impaired eyesight. I am left with memory loss and since my last stroke in November I have basal ganglia which affects my balance - and my emotions! I get quite cross now. I was always very placid and quiet. I believe the basal ganglia was brought on by my having had 12 CT brain scans and 1 MRI, as I am told it is caused by radiation. Not to mention my heart, circulation, sleep apnoea effects... ask me another!Published: May 27 ::

With my stroke, I experienced numbness on the left side of my body. I felt very disoriented, even though I knew where I was. It affected my vision in my right eye. It was as if I was looking at a photo with a paper blocking my vision.Published: March 25 ::

Comment from: anna6274, 45-54 Female

I woke up in the morning with my left arm numb and tingling later in the day i was very dizzy.Published: September 25 ::

Comment from: MAGICALGAMES, 75 or over Female (Patient)

When I had my stroke the only warning I had was a vision disturbance…within half-hour I had a major stroke that left me completely paralyzed on the right side. I had the stroke in October 2007. I have had a slow recovery rate, but I am alive to tell others to be aware of the signs.Published: September 25 ::

Comment from: sushikeys, 45-54 Female (Patient)

I had an aneurysm coiled. I went home for 3 days, had headaches, very grumpy, and on the 3rd day I collapsed in the shower with bleeding on the brain, which was removed by emergency. I was in a coma for 10 days and in the hospital for 6 weeks. It has been four months now, I am still in rehab.Published: September 25 ::

Comment from: kay9492, 55-64 Female (Patient)

In 2005 I experienced a lot of stress. Normally I don't get headaches but in September of that year I had a terrible headache starting from the base of the skull and up. My head was pounding. It started on a Friday. I worked that day. I was doing 2 jobs at the time. I was on high blood pressure medication but did not take anything for the headache. This continued through the weekend. On the Sunday of that weekend my supervisor sent me to the hospital. They did not diagnose me with stroke but my doctor said I did have a stroke. At the hospital my blood pressure was extremely high and they dosed me down with pain killers. They did all kinds of tests and did not find any blockages.Published: September 25 ::

Comment from: ssuv93, 35-44 Male (Patient)

I am a 44 year old male, Chinese American, obese with a body index of over 40, type two diabetic, with high blood pressure controlled by medicine, former smoker, sedentary due to an injury three years before stroke, before that active with job that entailed a lot of labor. Late Sunday evening I went to urinate. While urinating my right hand, forearm, foot, lower leg started to tingle, almost like an electrical shock. When going back to the bedroom, I noticed a slight problem with balance. I told my wife and we discussed what it might be. I then examined my body and in addition to what I described before on my right side, I discovered that the right side of my face was numb, including my lips and gums. The facial numbness was very similar to being given Novocain at a dentist. Early the next morning I went to the emergency department at my local hospital. I described my symptoms and they did the standard vital signs and blood tests. They did not believe I had a stroke and did nothing for treatment. I still had the same symptoms from the night before. They did however admit me for observation. That night I had a similar experience that seemed to "fill in" the remaining not numb parts, right trunk and right thigh. I informed my nurse. The next morning I called my General Doctor and informed him of what had happened, and my concern that the hospital was just observing, not treating me, and not thinking it could be a stroke. He called the Doctor on duty and discussed my care. The attending doctor came in and advised me that they would have a neurologist see me the next day at my doctor’s insistence. The next day, now fully numb on my right side with tingling on my lower right leg and right hand and forearm (almost painful), I was seen by a neurologist. He said he did not think I had a stroke, he believed it was diabetic neuropathy, but was going to do a ct scan and MRI later in the day. The results were that I had had a small Ischemic stroke. I could walk, talk and swallow, so I went home. I followed up with my doctor the next day. I had been on a low dose aspirin for a year. In the next week I found it hard to manipulate things with my right hand, keys, forks, using a keyboard, video game controller, and a snow plow with a joystick controller. I had balance problems, especially at night with no visual references. I noticed that my mind seamed to be foggy, not bad, but could not do math in my head as well as before. My right side started to get weak especially my hand. My doctor wanted me to go to physical therapy to learn how to use my left hand. I objected to this and just concentrated on not loosing the use of my right hand. I would not compensate with my left. It has helped, and my right hand is not loosing dexterity or strength. I did the same with my balance. I did martial arts exercises to strengthen my right side to improve my mobility, and it has helped. My doctor approved of the results. I still have problems sensing strength in my right hand. I drop forks and other utensils as I can't tell how hard I am holding things. It has been 18 months and I have not regained any sensation. I am thankful that it was not worse. I know how lucky I am to have such an easy time with this. I would like to let others in my situation know not to give up. Keep using your hand, work it and work it. I have learned to type again, so some improvement is possible. Also, I would not have been able to go through this with out my wife, so if you have a supportive partner, let them know how much you appreciate them.Published: September 25 ::

omment from: Goober, 45-54 Female (Patient)

Weeks before my stroke, I experienced waves of nausea. When I would lie in bed at night, the right side of my throat felt like pressure was being applied to it. I also had many, many PVCs two months before my stroke and one month after. My jaw felt sore. My personality changed. I was snapping at people and saying things that were out of character.Published: August 22 ::

I was sitting at my computer when my left arm and leg went numb, beyond the feeling you have when your arm or leg falls asleep. I thought it would pass, so I went over to my couch to see if it would. It did not. I managed to go downstairs in my apartment building, and someone told me go to the ER. I called my doctor, and the nurse told me to go to the ER. This was after a couple of hours. I was treated in the ER, and admitted overnight, and discharged the next evening, because I regained use of my leg and arm. I do not recommend anyone be as stupid as I was, I should have gone to the ER right then.Published: June 25 ::

Comment from: Jackie, 35-44 Female (Patient)

I have been having a headache for almost a week. I went to the doctor and they prescribe me Lisinopril and Hydrochlorothiazide 10-12.5mg. Every since I have been taking the medicine I have noticed that my left side of my face is swollen.Published: October 16 ::

Comment from: sophia, 35-44 Female

I am seeing a ripple in the left eye and I am having a sharp sticking in the both temples but not at the same time it comes with dizziness like sea sickness. Sometimes I have a feeling like there is crawling on the top of my head and also my heart is fluttering and it feels like my heart goes up and drops. Also in my neck it feels like my heart is beating real fast. I am also having twitching in the arms and legs and sometimes it feels like a pin sticking me. My sinuses are also being affected tremendously.Published: October 13 ::

Comment from: Paul, 55-64 Male (Caregiver)

My father is in the hospital as I write this. On Sunday he experienced a stroke while driving his car. He ran into the curb and crashed. He was taken immediately to the ER where they were quick to diagnose a stroke. The CT scan revealed a minor stroke had occurred within 48 hours prior to the accident. The doctors said the "clot-busters" would not be administered. He has lost mobility to the right side of his body, and his speech is very slow and heavily slurred. It has been 3 days now and he can finally answer questions with short simple answers. Although he does not seem to completely comprehend what the question is. I just want him to get better and come home now.Published: September 25 ::

Comment from: dotlee, 55-64 Male (Caregiver)

My son had a stroke and the neuro doctors say it was caused by a spike in blood pressure and heart rate, caused by the adrenal gland. Have you ever heard of this before? His speech is good but his throat has been affected and it is very hard for him to swallow. Could you give me any comments on this?Published: September 16 ::

Comment from: More Tuned In To Me, 45-54 Female (Patient)

I had a severe headache for almost two weeks with vision disturbances and numbness in my right jaw. The ER doctor said it was a migraine. Ten days after the onset of symptoms, I fell out of bed when I tried to get up. I could hardly see or walk. It felt like I was drunk. I am forty-seven years old and have lupus anti coagulant and was on blood thinners (not enough). I was blessed to have recovered well. I am still tired a lot, ringing in my head, headaches and my short term memory is not good, but I can walk and talk and smile the same as I always did.Published: September 16 ::

Comment from: bootsy49, 55-64 Female (Patient)

TIA's can trick you. I thought my legs were buckling and I would fall. By the way I've been a nurse over 25 years and didn't see it coming. I fell and couldn't get up again. I was admitted to the hospital with CVA left side which caused paralysis on the right side. This has been unreal, but I am adjusting.