What are the symptoms of a stroke?

Written by Tang Bo
Neurology
Updated on September 18, 2024
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Stroke, also commonly referred to as cerebrovascular accident, is caused by the rupture or blockage of blood vessels within the skull, leading to necrosis of brain tissue and a series of symptoms. It is divided into ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke. Ischemic stroke, commonly known as cerebral infarction or stroke, while hemorrhagic stroke refers to cerebral hemorrhage. Generally, ischemic strokes account for 80% of cases. Ischemic stroke is caused by blockage of blood vessels leading to necrosis of brain tissue, presenting with a series of symptoms such as hemiplegic numbness. Cerebral hemorrhage results from rupture of brain blood vessels causing damage to brain cells and symptoms of compression, and may also present with symptoms such as hemiplegic numbness. Both types can be differentiated by their symptoms, and can also be definitively diagnosed through a CT scan.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Main manifestations of pre-stroke warning signs

The precursor of cerebral thrombosis in neurology is called transient ischemic attack (TIA). As the name suggests, this is a transient disease, mainly characterized by symptomatic speech impairment, facial droop, drooling, episodic dizziness, blurred vision, and episodic numbness and weakness of limbs. These symptoms are generally transient, usually lasting from several minutes to a few hours and can be completely relieved. The precursor of cerebral thrombosis is regarded as an emergency in neurology and must be treated promptly. Delayed treatment can possibly progress to cerebral infarction, severely affecting the patient's quality of life and physical health. In considering this disease, one must immediately rush to the hospital for appropriate treatment with antiplatelet drugs, lipid-regulating drugs to stabilize plaques, and treatments such as volume expansion and fluid supplementation.

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Written by Tang Ying
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
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What is the goal of rehabilitation during the acute phase of a stroke?

Rehabilitation goals during the acute phase of stroke. In the acute phase, we usually can intervene with rehabilitation treatment 48 hours after the patient’s vital signs have stabilized. The main goals of rehabilitation during the acute phase are to prevent complications such as pressure ulcers, atelectasis pneumonia, urinary tract infections, deep vein thrombosis, and muscle atrophy. Additionally, it aims to improve impaired neurological functions such as sensory, motor, and speech therapies, and to enhance the patient’s ability for self-care and mobility.

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Written by Tang Ying
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
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Rehabilitation Treatment Plan for Stroke

The rehabilitation treatment plan for stroke involves rehabilitation physicians and therapists who, through comprehensive assessment of the patient's overall medical condition and functional impairments, develop individualized plans. These plans focus primarily on the patient's functional impairments, and accordingly, design treatments for movement, speech, swallowing, and attention to promote the patient's overall rehabilitation and improve their ability to perform daily activities independently. Common rehabilitation treatment options include not only medication but also occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, psychological support, and traditional rehabilitation methods. Through these personalized and comprehensive rehabilitation treatments, the aim is to facilitate the patient's early recovery, allowing them to return to their family and work environment sooner.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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What is good to eat after a stroke?

Stroke primarily refers to cerebrovascular diseases, among which cerebral infarction has the highest incidence rate. Regarding diet after experiencing a cerebral infarction, it mainly falls into two categories: The first category is medications. If it is a cerebral thrombosis, it is crucial to strictly control blood pressure and blood sugar using appropriate medications. Additionally, it is necessary to take medications to prevent the recurrence of thrombosis. These medications primarily include antiplatelet agents and drugs that regulate blood lipids to stabilize plaques. Furthermore, traditional Chinese medicines that invigorate the blood and remove stasis can also be used. These medicines also help to improve blood circulation. In terms of diet, it is essential to follow a low-salt, low-fat diet, avoid overly greasy foods, and eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits regularly. High-quality proteins should also be included, such as drinking milk and eating beef. Whole grains should not be omitted to ensure a balanced diet and promote recovery.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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What is a stroke?

The English term for 脑卒中 is stroke, which generally refers to a group of cerebrovascular diseases. These diseases often onset acutely and mainly consist of two types. The first type is ischemic stroke, which includes diseases like cerebral thrombosis, watershed infarction, cerebral infarction, and cerebral embolism. The second type is hemorrhagic stroke, which primarily includes cerebral hemorrhage and subarachnoid hemorrhage among other bleeding-related disorders. Regardless of the type, the onset of stroke is very sudden, and patients rapidly develop severe neurological deficits. For example, a patient may experience sudden slurred speech, paralysis of one side of the body, or numbness and weakness on one side. There will inevitably be obvious symptoms like dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and stiffness of the neck. If a stroke is suspected, it is crucial to rush to the hospital immediately. Doctors will make an accurate diagnosis and provide appropriate treatment based on the patient's medical history and cranial CT scans.