What to do if having a stroke
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Consensus Meter
What to Do If Having a Stroke
Recognizing Stroke Symptoms
Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke early is crucial for effective treatment and improved outcomes. Common symptoms include sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, and trouble seeing . Immediate recognition and response can significantly impact survival and functional recovery.
Immediate Actions to Take
Call Emergency Services
The first and most critical step if you suspect a stroke is to call emergency services immediately. Time is of the essence, as early treatment can save lives and reduce the severity of long-term disabilities . Use emergency transport systems to get to a hospital equipped with brain imaging tests available 24/7.
Seek Emergency Medical Care
Upon arrival at the hospital, the medical team will quickly assess and begin treatment. For ischemic strokes, which are the most common, treatments like intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy are essential to restore blood flow to the brain . For hemorrhagic strokes, which involve bleeding in the brain, treatments focus on reducing blood pressure and managing coagulopathy.
Hospital Treatment
Ischemic Stroke
For ischemic strokes, the primary goal is to restore blood flow to the affected area of the brain. This is typically achieved through intravenous thrombolysis, which dissolves the clot, or mechanical thrombectomy, which physically removes the clot using endovascular tools . These treatments are most effective when administered as soon as possible after symptom onset.
Hemorrhagic Stroke
In the case of hemorrhagic strokes, where there is bleeding in the brain, treatment focuses on controlling the bleeding and reducing pressure on the brain. This may involve medications to lower blood pressure and counteract any blood-thinning medications the patient may be taking.
Post-Stroke Management
Admission to Stroke Units
Admission to specialized stroke units has been shown to improve outcomes for stroke patients. These units provide comprehensive care, including monitoring, rehabilitation, and prevention of complications .
Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care
Stroke survivors often require long-term rehabilitation to regain lost functions and adapt to new limitations. This can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, depending on the specific impairments caused by the stroke . Managing non-motor symptoms such as depression, cognitive deficits, and fatigue is also crucial for improving quality of life .
Conclusion
Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke and seeking immediate medical attention are critical steps in improving outcomes. Early treatment with thrombolysis or thrombectomy for ischemic strokes, and blood pressure management for hemorrhagic strokes, can significantly reduce the risk of long-term disability and death. Admission to specialized stroke units and comprehensive rehabilitation are essential for recovery and improving the quality of life for stroke survivors.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic