Stroke Treatment: Types, Symptoms & Rehabilitation

How Stroke Can Be Treated

The rate of stroke incidence is increasing worldwide day by day. In most cases, the lack of awareness is leading to a rise in the number of stroke patients. In Bangladesh, currently, 1.5 to 2 million patients have been affected by or are at risk of stroke, and on average, 3 to 5 people per thousand are falling victim to stroke.

Furthermore, as a non-communicable disease, stroke is now considered the second leading cause of death, and those who survive often suffer from various physical disabilities or remain at risk.

When blood flow within the internal blood vessels of the brain decreases or fat deposits build up in the blood vessels (primarily due to thrombo-embolism), it is known as an Ischemic Stroke. On the other hand, when an internal blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing bleeding and damaging the tissues in the affected area, it is called a Hemorrhagic Stroke. This leads to various physical problems for the patient.

Stroke Symptoms

The symptoms of both Ischemic and Hemorrhagic strokes are the same, making it difficult to differentiate initially. Some primary symptoms for both types of stroke include: tingling or numbness on one side of the body, feeling weak, sudden loss of consciousness, facial drooping, or difficulty moving the arm and leg on the affected side. Therefore, in such a situation, it is crucial to perform a CT scan or MRI for diagnosis. Although the symptoms are similar, the treatment for the two conditions is completely different.

For Ischemic Stroke, blood flow to the brain can be normalized or increased through medication or surgery. However, for Hemorrhagic Stroke, surgery may be required to resolve the blood clot. In terms of rehabilitation treatment, the patient needs physical rehabilitation, as well as occupational rehabilitation.

Often, it is seen that the patient has difficulty speaking, which is medically known as Aphasia. In that case, Speech and Language Rehabilitation is necessary. Rehabilitation treatment should be conducted under the supervision of a multidisciplinary team, which is beneficial according to the patient's overall condition and difficulties, and through this, the patient has a higher chance of recovering quickly.

Immediate Action and Long-Term Care

If a patient becomes unconscious due to a stroke, immediate efforts must be made to keep the airway, breathing, and blood circulation functional (CPR therapy is particularly effective in this case). The patient should be laid on their side, without a pillow, and with the head lowered. Pay attention to the eyes and their reactions or signals. Care for the bladder and use a catheter if necessary. Physiotherapy is one of the best solutions for ensuring the long-term protection of a stroke patient.

Conclusion

With proper observation and correct treatment, it is possible to restore a stroke patient to health without the risk of complications. However, extra caution is needed to ensure that no one's life is endangered by a stroke. On one hand, it is necessary to keep oneself as worry-free as possible, and on the other hand, family, relatives, and friends should always stand by the side of the stressed individual. Not fear, but awareness can save a life.

Dr. Mohammad Najim Uddin

MBBS, MRCP (UK), MCPS (Medicine),
MD (Neurology), Clinical Attache-Stroke (UK),
Epilepsy (Oman), Botox & Neurophysiology (India)
Senior Consultant - Neurology