Stroke

A stroke occurs when an area of the brain is deprived of blood flow. There are three different types of stroke. Each one is serious and deserves medical attention as quickly as possible.

Ischemic stroke

This is the most common type of stroke. It occurs when an artery that supplies blood to the brain is significantly narrowed or blocked by a buildup of plaque. The plaque can then break into small pieces with rough edges and cause blood clots. These clots eventually break free, then get stuck in small blood vessels in the brain.

Hemorrhagic stroke

This type of stroke accounts for only 13 percent of strokes and occurs less frequently than an ischemic stroke. However, it is responsible for 30 percent of all stroke deaths.

Instead of a blockage, a hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, allowing blood to flow freely into the skull and brain tissue. This blood flow causes damage to the brain cells. Those with defects in their brain’s blood vessels are at an increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke.

Transient ischemic attack (TIA)

TIAs are often called "mini-strokes" because they are temporary blockages of the artery and leave no permanent brain damage. The symptoms of a TIA will usually go away within 24 hours, depending on which artery is blocked. However, it is often treated the same as a stroke because the symptoms can be very similar.

TIAs are a warning sign that you should discuss with your physician. More than 30 percent of people who experience TIAs ultimately experience a stroke.

Our physicians typically perform a computerized tomography (CT) scan to determine if you have had or are having a stroke. The scan can also tell us what type of stroke has occurred, so we can provide proper treatment.

We offer stroke prevention screenings twice a year. These screenings allow you to speak with a registered nurse about personal risk factors and how to recognize stroke symptoms.

Know the warning signs of a stroke by remembering to spot a stroke “F.A.S.T.”:

• Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
• Arm: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
• Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Does the speech sound slurred?
• Time: Act quick and call 911.

Our neurology program offers various carotid artery procedures that are designed to restore blood flow and lessen damage to the brain.

The carotid arteries are located in the neck and bring oxygenated blood to the brain. These arteries may develop a buildup of cholesterol, plaque or calcium over time, causing the vessel to narrow. This can lead to decreased flow of blood to the brain, and possibly a stroke.

Depending on your condition, our surgeons may perform one of the following procedures:

• Carotid artery angioplasty – This procedure is used to open the artery and restore normal blood flow to the brain. Stents are sometimes used to prop the artery open.
• Carotid endarterectomy – This procedure is used to repair a blockage by opening the carotid artery and removing the plaque from the vessel's inner wall.

If you have experienced a stroke, we offer a full range of physical therapy and rehabilitation services. Stroke rehabilitation can help you regain balance and motor skills, improve speech and alleviate difficulties in swallowing.

At our stroke support group, you and your loved ones can meet and interact with other families who have had similar experiences. The group meets the third Wednesday of each month from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center Auditorium.