If you have had a stroke, it means your brain did not get the blood and oxygen it needs. This can damage cells and affect various functions in the body. Different situations can cause strokes. An ischemic stroke means that a blood clot has blocked the flow of blood in an artery that supplies the brain. It's the most common cause of strokes. Strokes can be mild or disabling. Talk to your health care team to choose the best treatments for an ischemic stroke based on your individual needs.
Medications
According to the American Heart Association, the first step in treatment is to address the cause and administer a clot-dissolving medication. However, this is only helpful if given within three hours of having a stroke. This is why if you notice the signs and symptoms of a stroke, get medical help right away. These medications can be given through an intravenous line and can help restore blood flow to the brain and reduce damage. The AHA says that only 3 percent to 5 percent of stroke patients get to the hospital fast enough to benefit from this treatment. After having your stroke, depending on the severity, you may need medications that thin your blood to prevent future clots, drugs to lower blood pressure, or cholesterol--along with any meds needed to control pain or other symptoms.
Surgery
If your doctor is unable to open your arteries enough with medication, you may need surgery. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke says that you may need surgery to repair the damage to an artery and/or remove plaque buildup from the artery walls. If the artery is severely blocked, you may need bypass surgery. This uses a healthy artery from somewhere else in your body to replace the blocked artery.
Lifestyle Changes
Blocked arteries can often be the result of unhealthy lifestyle choices. You must take steps to prevent another stroke. The National Institutes of Health recommend quitting smoking; eating a diet low in fat, salt and cholesterol; exercising at a moderate level for 30 minutes on most days of the week; losing weight if needed; and learning to manage stress. Healthy choices lower your risk of another stroke and other forms of heart disease.
Physical and Occupational Therapy
The damage from a stroke depends on the severity of your stroke and the time that elapsed between your stroke and when treatment was received. Strokes can affect any area of the brain. Because different areas of the brain control different functions, the type of rehabilitation will depend on what area of the brain was damaged. For some, the damage is mild; for others, it is disabling. The American Stroke Association says physical and occupational therapists can help you with any difficulties speaking, walking, grooming, social skills or using adaptive aids. They can also help you make modifications so you can return to your job or favorite hobbies. Your PT and OT can help you design an exercise program to help you to regain as much strength and flexibility as possible.
