The first 24 hours after a stroke are critical. Patients must receive the right treatment in accordance to the type of stroke they had. Failure to do so can result in severe brain damage, long-term disability or even death.
Here are stroke treatment steps to ensure the best outcome possible:
Spot a Stroke FAST
Individuals experiencing stroke will exhibit certain signs. The FAST (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) acronym is designed to recognise these symptoms before brain damage progresses.
- Face Drooping: Ask the individual to smile. Drooping to one side may indicate an incoming stroke.
- Arm Weakness: Ask them to raise both arms. People suffering from stroke can only raise one arm, or only raise both momentarily before they sink.
- Speech Difficulty: Slurred or strange speech is a clear warning. The stroke may be affecting language centres in the brain.
- Time to Call EMS: The moment symptoms appear, call for emergency medical services (EMS). Delaying treatment reduces the chances of full recovery and increases the risk of post-stroke complications.
Keep in mind that pain is not always present during a stroke. With that said, some patients may also experience vision loss, confusion or trouble walking.
Identify the Type of Stroke
Wait for medical professionals to arrive. This should not take long considering stroke cases are treated as medical emergencies. Upon arrival, the professionals will identify the type of stroke.
There are two main types of stroke; ischemic stroke (caused by blood clot) and hemorrhagic stroke (caused by bleeding). Both strokes are caused by disruptions in blood flow to the brain—but they require completely different treatment.
A quick CT scan or portable CT scanner is used to determine the type of stroke.
Administering Treatment En Route to Hospital
Upon identifying the stroke, emergency medical technicians (EMT) can start administering treatment while transporting the patient to the hospital. This includes IV fluids, oxygen support and medication to stabilise vital signs.
The goal during transit is to keep the patient as stable as possible, minimising brain damage before reaching the hospital.
The trip to the hospital is a critical window in the entire stroke response process—one wrong move and your brain tissues can get permanently damaged.
Arrival at the Hospital
Upon arrival, the hospital’s stroke unit or primary stroke centre takes over. A team of specialists, including the neurocritical care team, will work to confirm diagnosis and begin treatment.
For ischemic stroke, the patient may receive tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) if within the treatment window. This clot-busting drug helps dissolve the blockage and restore blood flow. In some cases, a mechanical thrombectomy may be necessary.
This involves using a stent retriever to physically remove the clot. For hemorrhagic stroke, treatment focuses on stopping the bleeding and reducing pressure in the brain. This involves blood pressure management or stroke surgery.
Starting Stroke Rehabilitation
Stroke rehabilitation is highly recommended for all patients—regardless how severe the attack was. Patients should start rehabilitation within 24 to 48 hours of receiving medical attention. Doctors will give the green light once the patient is medically stable.
This usually involves physical therapy, speech therapy and neuroplasticity exercises. Some centres even offer rehabilitation robotics in the form of exoskeletons. (depending upon the condition and severity of the stroke case)
These therapies are crucial in addressing post-stroke complications like muscle weakness, speech loss and coordination issues.
Living With Stroke
(Image Source: elements.envato.com)
Globally, there are almost 94 million people who have experienced stroke. This goes to show that stroke is not just a medical condition, but a global health crisis. Nonetheless, living with stroke is still possible, and many survivors go on to lead fulfilling lives.
Patients who retain most bodily functions can maintain independence with minimal assistance. On the other hand, patients who suffer from impairments may require long-term care and daily support.
Other complications that stroke patients may face include seizures, hypertension, pneumonia and cerebral edema. Patients might also experience a range of mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
Preventing a Second Stroke
(Image Source: KJ Therapy)
Ultimately, the goal of rehabilitation is to stop another stroke from occurring. Once a person has had a stroke, their risk of experiencing another significantly increases.
Doctors typically prescribe a combination of medication, lifestyle adjustments and routine check-ups to manage this risk. Patients are encouraged to adopt a heart-healthy diet, quit smoking, reduce alcohol and to engage in regular physical activity.
In some cases, surgical interventions carotid endarterectomy or stenting may be recommended to reduce future risk. Follow-up appointments should never be skipped—these reviews help professionals track recovery and adjust treatment plans.
All in all, these steps can help patients reduce the risk of a second stroke and live a normal life.
The Bottom Line
A stroke should not be taken lightly. The first 24 hours can mean life or death to most people, so remember to act quickly. Upon receiving treatment, it is important for all patients to receive rehabilitation as recommended by their doctors.
If you would like to find out more about stroke rehabilitation and why it is important, please visit our website or contact us.
