How do doctors treat a stroke?

As a medical professional with expertise in neurology, I can explain the various approaches to treating a stroke. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. There are two main types of stroke: ischemic, caused by a blocked blood vessel, and hemorrhagic, caused by a broken blood vessel. Treatment for a stroke depends on its type and how quickly it is diagnosed. Ischemic Stroke Treatment: 1. Thrombolytic Therapy: If diagnosed within 4.5 hours, a drug called alteplase can be administered to dissolve the clot causing the stroke. 2. Endarterectomy: In some cases, surgery may be performed to remove the blockage. 3. Anticoagulants: These medications help prevent blood clots from forming or getting larger. 4. Antiplatelet Therapy: These drugs prevent platelets from sticking together to form a clot. 5. Aspirin: Often given immediately after a stroke to help prevent further clotting. Hemorrhagic Stroke Treatment: 1. Blood Pressure Control: Medications to lower high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for hemorrhagic stroke. 2. Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the broken blood vessel. 3. Intracranial Pressure Management: Medications or procedures to reduce pressure inside the skull. 4. Supportive Care: This includes managing symptoms, preventing complications, and providing rehabilitation. Rehabilitation is a critical part of stroke recovery and can include physical, occupational, and speech therapy to help patients regain lost functions.

To treat an ischemic stroke, doctors must quickly restore blood flow to your brain. Emergency treatment with medications. Therapy with clot-busting drugs must start within 3 hours if they are given into the vein �� and the sooner, the better.