Thrombotic stroke

Description A sudden stoppage o...

Description

A sudden stoppage of blood flow to the blood vessels of the brain causing injury. In a thrombotic stroke, a clot forms inside the blood vessel and eventually completely blocks blood flow. The symptoms experienced depend on the area of the brain that is affected. Survival and the best outcome depend on seeking medical care immediately. These types of strokes are more common in patients with high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and those that smoke cigarettes.

Symptoms

Symptoms may include weakness or paralysis of the face, arm, or leg. They may also include sudden numbness, difficulty walking, difficulty speaking, clumsiness, double vision, or blurry vision.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A complete history and physical exam will be performed. Immediate brain imaging (CT scan and / or MRI) and blood tests (clotting panel, blood sugar, metabolic panel) to identify the part of the brain affected and the cause of the stroke will be performed.

Tests:
Carotid ultrasound, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Electrocardiogram (EKG), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray

Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Neurology, Family Practice

Treatment

A stroke is a medical emergency and the patient should seek immediate medical attention. Therapy depends on the size of the stroke, the medications the patient is taking, how long the symptoms have been present and other associated diseases. Acute treatment may include: intravenous or intra-arterial thrombolysis (tissue plasminogen activator/t-PA), anti-platelet medications (aspirin, clopidogrel/Plavix), anticoagulants (heparin, enoxaparin). Longer term treatment includes medications to prevent a second stroke, physical therapy, speech therapy, and/or occupational therapy.