How is stroke treated?

A stroke can result from a blocked blood vessel or bleeding in the brain, and these types need different treatment. Hospital teams use urgent examination and brain imaging to guide decisions. Sudden Weakness on One Side, facial drooping, speech difficulty, vision change or loss of balance should be treated as an emergency, even if the signs improve.

Recovery may include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, swallowing support and help with mood or memory. A prevention plan may address Hypertension, High Cholesterol, Type 2 Diabetes or Atrial Fibrillation. Medicines such as Blood Pressure Medication, and other treatments selected by the stroke team, should be taken as prescribed. Do not stop them without medical advice.

Call emergency services immediately for a new drooping face, arm or leg weakness, speech trouble, sudden severe headache, confusion, collapse or difficulty walking. Record when the person was last known to be well, keep them safe and do not give food, drink or medicines if swallowing may be affected. Do not drive them yourself unless emergency professionals advise it.

What type of stroke occurred and what caused it? Which medicines and rehabilitation services do I need? How will my blood pressure, heart rhythm, cholesterol and diabetes be monitored?