Septic stroke: what to know

The phrase can be used in different ways. Severe infection may disturb circulation and clotting, while an infection affecting the heart valves can allow infected material to travel in the bloodstream and block a brain artery. A stroke damages brain tissue when blood flow is blocked or bleeding occurs. Possible signs include facial drooping, one-sided weakness, trouble speaking, sudden vision change, severe imbalance or new numbness and tingling. Conditions such as [Atrial Fibrillation](/conditions/atrial-fibrillation/), [Hypertension](/conditions/hypertension/) and [Type 2 Diabetes](/conditions/type-2-diabetes/) can also affect stroke risk, but a symptom does not reveal its cause.

Call emergency services at once for any sudden neurological change, even if it improves. Note the time the person was last known to be well, keep them safe and do not give food, drink or tablets unless instructed. Do not drive them if an ambulance is available. Emergency clinicians need rapid information to distinguish a blocked artery, bleeding, infection-related illness or another cause. Do not stop prescribed medicines without medical advice.

Treat facial asymmetry, arm weakness, speech difficulty, sudden confusion, collapse, new severe headache or sudden loss of balance as an emergency. Fever, a recent infection, a new heart murmur or unusual breathlessness may help clinicians investigate an infectious contribution, but they must not delay the call. After emergency assessment, a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can support prevention and recovery planning.

What type of stroke occurred and was infection involved? Were the heart valves, blood cultures and brain blood vessels assessed? Which medicines and rehabilitation steps reduce the chance of another event?