Overview
Stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, causing brain cell damage. It can result in permanent neurological deficits if not treated promptly.
Symptoms
Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body Confusion or trouble speaking Trouble seeing in one or both eyes Difficulty walking, dizziness, or loss of balance Severe headache with no known cause
Causes
Blocked artery (ischemic stroke) Leaking or burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke) Transient ischemic attack (TIA) as a warning sign High blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and high cholesterol
Diagnosis
Physical and neurological examination CT scan or MRI of the brain Blood tests for clotting and risk factors Ultrasound or angiography to check blood vessels
Treatment
Emergency clot removal or thrombolysis for ischemic stroke Control of bleeding for hemorrhagic stroke Rehabilitation: physical, occupational, and speech therapy Medications to prevent recurrence (antiplatelets, anticoagulants)