Description A sudden stoppage o...
Description
A sudden stoppage of blood flow to one of the small arteries of a deep area of the brain causing injury. These strokes are usually located in areas of the brain called the pons and basal ganglia. They are most likely to occur in older people, especially those with high blood pressure (hypertension). Unlike other strokes, these strokes are rarely caused by an embolism (a clot that travels through the bloodstream). The symptoms experienced depend on the area of the brain that is affected.
Symptoms
There may be minimal or no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include weakness or paralysis of the face, arm, or leg. They may also include sudden numbness, difficulty walking, difficulty speaking, clumsiness or visual disturbances.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A complete history and physical exam will be performed. Most often brain imaging with either a head CT scan or an MRI is performed.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Electrocardiogram (EKG), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Ultrasound, X-ray
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Neurology, Family Practice
Workup:
A complete history and physical exam will be performed. Most often brain imaging with either a head CT scan or an MRI is performed.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Electrocardiogram (EKG), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Ultrasound, X-ray
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Neurology, Family Practice
Treatment
A stroke is a medical emergency. 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. Treatment may include: blood pressure medication, anti-platelet medications (aspirin, clopidogrel/Plavix), physical therapy, speech therapy, and/or occupational therapy.