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Read MoreStroke is a serious medical condition that happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked or a blood vessel bursts. It can cause lasting brain damage, but quick treatment can reduce complications and improve outcomes.
What Is a Stroke?
A stroke happens when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting the oxygen and nutrients it needs. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. Stroke is a medical emergency, and early treatment is essential to minimize brain damage and improve the chances of recovery. Depending on which part of the brain is affected, stroke can affect movement, speech, memory and other vital functions.
Types of Stroke
There are different types of stroke, each with its own cause and treatment approach:
- Ischemic stroke: The most common type, caused by a blood clot or narrowing of the arteries that blocks blood flow to the brain. This type includes thrombotic stroke or a thrombotic cerebrovascular accident (CVA), where a clot forms in a brain artery and disrupts circulation, and those affecting major vessels, like the middle cerebral artery, which can affect speech and motor function
- Hemorrhagic stroke: Also known as a hemorrhagic cerebrovascular accident, this type is caused by a ruptured blood vessel in the brain, leading to bleeding that damages surrounding tissue
- Transient ischemic attack (TIA): Sometimes called a mini-stroke, a TIA involves a temporary blockage that resolves on its own but serves as a warning sign for a future stroke
- Cryptogenic stroke: A stroke with no identifiable cause, even after thorough testing
- Brain stem stroke: A serious type of stroke that affects the brain stem, which controls essential bodily functions like breathing and heartbeat
- Cerebellar stroke: A cerebellar stroke or cerebellar CVA is a stroke that occurs in the cerebellum, which may be ischemic or hemorrhagic. Effects may include dizziness, nausea, balance problems and coordination issues
Stroke Risk Factors
Common medical risks include high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and atrial fibrillation. Carotid artery disease, where arteries in the neck are narrowed or blocked, also increases stroke risk. Lifestyle habits like smoking, excessive alcohol use, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity further elevate risk. Age, family history and certain health issues also play a part.
What Are the Symptoms of Stroke?
Stroke symptoms often come on suddenly and can vary depending on the part of the brain affected. Symptoms include:
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
- Sudden, severe headache with no known cause
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or difficulty understanding speech
- Sudden difficulty walking, dizziness or a loss of balance or coordination
- Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
How Is a Stroke Diagnosed?
Doctors start with physical exams, symptom review and brain imaging to identify the type and location of the stroke. A CT scan, which can quickly detect bleeding in the brain and an MRI can provide a more detailed view of brain tissue and confirm an earlier or more minor stroke. Tests such as a carotid ultrasound, echocardiogram or blood tests can help identify underlying causes, including blocked arteries, heart issues or clotting problems.
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Stroke Treatment Options
Rehabilitation and Recovery Programs
After the initial treatment, many people benefit from physical, occupational and speech therapy to regain independence and improve their quality of life.
Carotid Artery Stenting (CAS)
A less invasive alternative to endarterectomy, CAS uses a catheter, usually via the groin, to place a stent in the carotid artery. It restores blood flow but carries a slightly higher risk of embolic stroke compared with transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR).
Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR)
A less invasive alternative to traditional carotid surgery, TCAR safely reduces stroke risk in patients with carotid artery disease through a small incision and advanced stenting techniques. It offers a lower risk of complications and is one of the latest advancements in stroke prevention.
Carotid Endarterectomy
This surgical procedure removes plaque buildup from the carotid artery in the neck to restore proper blood flow and prevent a future stroke.
Clot-busting Medications
For ischemic stroke, medications or thrombolytics like tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) can dissolve blood clots if given within a few hours of symptom onset.
Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Therapy
Medications such as aspirin or blood thinners help prevent new clots from forming, especially after a TIA or mild stroke.
Our Approach to Stroke Treatment
At Inspira, we deliver fast, expert stroke care focused on rapid diagnosis, advanced treatment and ongoing recovery. Our team includes neurologists, vascular surgeons, emergency medicine providers, interventional radiologists and rehabilitation specialists who work together to provide seamless, personalized care. We use state-of-the-art options like TCAR for carotid artery disease to lower stroke risk. From emergency intervention to rehab and prevention, we support you through every stage of your stroke journey.
