(Brain and Nervous System Center – Phyathai 1 Hospital)
Stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain becomes insufficient, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and vital nutrients. This leads to the death of brain cells if not treated promptly. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options is critical for reducing the risk and improving outcomes for both patients and caregivers.
What Are the Symptoms of Stroke?
Early detection is key to minimizing brain damage and improving recovery outcomes. Medical professionals use the B.E.F.A.S.T. method to recognize stroke signs quickly:
- B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance or dizziness
- E – Eyes: Blurred vision or double vision
- F – Face: Facial drooping or uneven smile
- A – Arms: One arm drifts downward when both are raised
- S – Speech: Slurred speech, trouble speaking, or repetition of words
- T – Time: If any of the above symptoms appear, seek emergency medical help immediately—ideally within 4.5 hours to reduce brain damage and increase the chance of recovery.
Types and Causes of Stroke
Stroke occurs due to blockage or rupture of blood vessels in the brain, classified into two main types:
- Ischemic Stroke: Caused by a blocked artery, often due to plaque or fatty buildup restricting blood flow.
- Hemorrhagic Stroke: Caused by a ruptured blood vessel, often due to high blood pressure. The leaking blood damages brain tissue, making recovery more difficult.
Risk Factors for Stroke
Several factors can increase the risk of stroke:
- High blood pressure: The leading cause of stroke.
- Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels.
- High cholesterol and triglycerides: Leads to plaque buildup.
- Smoking: Damages blood vessels and reduces elasticity.
- Excessive alcohol: Can raise blood pressure.
- Lack of exercise: Weakens cardiovascular and nervous systems.
Diagnosis Methods
Stroke diagnosis typically includes:
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Detects damaged brain areas and blood flow.
- CT Angiography (CTA): Assesses blood flow in vessels throughout the body.
- CT Perfusion (CTP): Evaluates blood flow in suspected affected areas.
- Cerebral Angiography: Gold standard for diagnosing aneurysms or vascular malformations.
- Carotid Duplex and Transcranial Doppler Ultrasound: Examine blood vessels in the neck and base of the skull.
- Echocardiography (TTE/TEE): Evaluates heart conditions, such as blood clots or valve abnormalities.
Stroke Treatments
Stroke treatment depends on the type and severity of the condition:
1. Medication
- Clot-busting drugs (rt-PA): Must be administered within 4.5 hours of symptom onset to be effective.
2. Endovascular Intervention (Thrombectomy)
- A catheter-based technique used to remove the clot within 8 hours of symptom onset, without open surgery.
3. Surgery
- Used in cases of severe hemorrhagic stroke or to repair damaged blood vessels to restore blood flow urgently.
Stroke Risk Factors: Modifiable vs. Non-Modifiable
Non-Modifiable Risk Factors:
- Age: Over 65 increases risk.
- Gender: Males are more at risk.
- Genetics: Family history of stroke, especially at a young age.
Modifiable Lifestyle-Related Risk Factors:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Heart disease (e.g., arrhythmia, heart failure)
- Smoking or secondhand smoke exposure
- Obesity
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Drug or stimulant use
Managing these risk factors can significantly reduce your chances of having a stroke.
When and Where to Get Help
Stroke is a life-threatening emergency. If you or someone you know experiences stroke symptoms or has risk factors, seek medical attention immediately.
You can book a consultation or screening at the
Brain and Nervous System Center – Phyathai 1 Hospital,
Building 3, 5th Floor.
Our team of neurologists and specialists will assess symptoms, perform comprehensive diagnostics, and provide close follow-up care to ensure the best possible recovery outcomes.
📞 Call 02-201-4600 ext. 2688–90 to schedule an appointment or for more information.
