Stroke Specialist

What is a stroke?

A stroke is an interruption in your brain’s blood supply. It prevents your brain’s tissues from receiving the oxygen and nutrients they need to function properly. Within minutes, your brain cells begin to die, which can result in death without immediate medical attention.

What are the signs of a stroke?

Symptoms of a stroke aren’t always obvious. However, understanding the early warning signs of a stroke can help improve your outcome. Some of the most common stroke symptoms to watch for include:

• Slurred speech
• Confusion
• One-sided weakness or numbness
• Double vision
• Droopiness on one side of the face
• Difficulty understanding speech
• Problems walking
• Weakness in the face, arms, or legs
• Dizziness
• Loss of coordination

One of the telltale signs of a stroke is a sudden, severe headache that develops without warning or explanation. Seeking medical attention immediately can help prevent long-term impairment, brain damage, and even death.

Are there different types of strokes?

There are several types of strokes, such as:

Ischemic stroke

The most common type of stroke, an ischemic stroke is the result of narrowed or blocked blood vessels. This can severely impact blood flow to your brain and lead to a stroke. While an ischemic stroke can happen to anyone, you’re more likely to get one if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, high cholesterol, or diabetes.

Transient ischemic attack (TIA)

A transient ischemic attack is a ministroke that causes temporary stroke symptoms. It happens if the blood flow to your brain is temporarily blocked.

Hemorrhagic stroke

A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when your blood vessels erupt or leak. It can happen after an ischemic stroke or if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure. Blood thinners and severe trauma also increase your risk of a hemorrhagic stroke.

How do neurologists treat strokes?

A stroke requires emergency care. If you suffer a stroke, you may need surgery to reduce pressure on your brain from excess fluids and blood. 

After this emergency treatment, Arizona Neurology Care recommends rehabilitation to help you regain sensation, movement, and function in any affected areas. In addition, you may need speech therapy if your ability to speak is affected.

Strokes often occur due to an underlying condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, so it’s important to make lifestyle modifications to prevent another attack. Arizona Neurology Care may monitor your diet, implement an exercise plan, recommend that you quit smoking, or change your current medications to prevent a second stroke.

Call Arizona Neurology Care or book an appointment online now to learn more.