Stroke Symptoms, Signs, Causes, And Treatments

8. Statins

Statins are a type of medication that is frequently used to decrease cholesterol levels in the bloodstream. Elevated cholesterol levels can cause the creation of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems such as strokes.

Apart from their ability to lower cholesterol, statins may also provide other beneficial impacts on the cardiovascular system. For instance, they may contribute to the stabilization of present plaque in the arteries, which can reduce the risk of blood clots and rupture.

7. Mechanical Thrombectomy

Mechanical thrombectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to remove blood clots from arteries in the brain. This procedure is typically used to treat ischemic stroke.

This is a highly effective treatment for ischemic stroke, particularly when performed within a few hours of the onset of symptoms. This procedure can help to prevent further damage to the brain and reduce the risk of disability and other long-term complications.

6. Stents

Stenting or angioplasty is a medical procedure used to improve the flow of blood to the brain. It is performed by inserting a small metal mesh tube (stent) into a blocked artery.

This treatment is commonly used for ischemic stroke. Stenting is often performed alongside other treatments to effectively treat the condition.

5. Catheter Embolectomy

Catheter embolectomy is a surgical procedure that is minimally invasive and can be used to treat ischemic stroke.

A catheter, which is a long and thin tube, is inserted through an artery in the groin and is guided up to the blocked artery in the brain.

A small device is then used to capture and remove the blood clot causing the stroke. When performed soon after the onset of symptoms, catheter embolectomy can effectively restore blood flow to the affected area of the brain, prevent further damage, and lead to better outcomes for patients.

4. Decompressive Craniotomy

One surgical option to treat hemorrhagic stroke is a decompressive craniotomy, which involves the removal of part of the skull to alleviate brain swelling or bleeding.

This procedure aims to reduce pressure on the brain, allowing it to swell without being compressed, which can help prevent further damage and improve patient outcomes.

A decompressive craniotomy is usually performed as an emergency measure and may be followed by other treatments depending on the individual case.

3. Carotid Endarterectomy

One medical procedure used to treat stroke is carotid endarterectomy, which targets plaque buildup in the carotid arteries that supply blood to the brain.

The surgical intervention involves the removal of the plaque from the artery wall to minimize the risk of future strokes.

Usually, patients who have had a stroke or are highly susceptible to stroke due to substantial narrowing of the carotid arteries are recommended for this procedure.

2. Endovascular Therapy

This particular treatment for stroke involves the use of a catheter to remove the blood clot that’s causing the blockage in the affected area of the brain.

The success of this endovascular therapy largely depends on how quickly it is administered, ideally within six to eight hours of the onset of the stroke, depending on the location.

The procedure can quickly restore blood flow to the affected area, sometimes within minutes.

1. Aneurysm Clipping

Aneurysm clipping can be used to address subarachnoid hemorrhage, a type of stroke caused by the rupture of a blood vessel in the brain resulting in bleeding into the space around the brain.

A neurosurgeon will perform the procedure by placing a small metal clip around the base of the aneurysm, which is a weak spot in the blood vessel, to stop further bleeding.

Aneurysm clipping is typically recommended for larger aneurysms or those located in areas of the brain that are not easily accessible by other treatments.

The procedure can help to prevent further bleeding and reduce the risk of long-term complications like brain damage or disability.

These are stroke symptoms and treatments worth knowing about.