Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS)
Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS)
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Frequently Asked Questions :
1. What is the first thing I should do if someone shows signs of a stroke?
Call emergency services immediately and get the person to the hospital as soon as possible. Time is critical in stroke treatment.
2. How is an ischemic stroke different from a hemorrhagic stroke?
An ischemic stroke is caused by a clot blocking blood flow, while a hemorrhagic stroke is caused by bleeding in or around the brain.
3. Can ischemic strokes be prevented?
Yes, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and managing conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol can reduce the risk of stroke.
About Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS)
An Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS) occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is blocked, typically due to a blood clot. This interruption leads to damage in brain cells, which can result in life-threatening conditions if not treated promptly. It is the most common type of stroke and requires immediate medical attention.
As one of the leading neurosurgeons in India, Dr. Sandeep Vaishya specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of strokes, providing patients with advanced care and the latest medical techniques to improve outcomes.
Causes of Acute Ischemic Stroke
The primary cause of AIS is the blockage or narrowing of arteries supplying blood to the brain. This blockage is most commonly due to:
- Atherosclerosis: A buildup of plaque in the arteries.
- Blood clots: Can form in the heart or arteries and travel to the brain.
- High cholesterol and hypertension: These conditions increase the risk of clot formation.
- Diabetes: Affects blood vessels, raising the risk of ischemic stroke.
- Smoking and obesity: Known lifestyle risk factors contributing to stroke.
- Atrial Fibrillation: An irregular heart rhythm that can cause clots to form.
Types of Ischemic Stroke
There are two main types of ischemic strokes:
- Thrombotic Stroke: Caused by a blood clot that forms directly in one of the brain’s arteries.
- Embolic Stroke: A clot that forms elsewhere in the body, often the heart, and travels to the brain.
Both types block the brain’s blood supply, leading to potential brain damage if not treated quickly.
Symptoms of Acute Ischemic Stroke
Recognizing the symptoms of a stroke early can save lives. Common symptoms include:
- Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, often on one side of the body.
- Confusion or trouble speaking or understanding speech.
- Difficulty seeing in one or both eyes.
- Severe headache with no known cause.
- Dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination.
If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Diagnosis of Acute Ischemic Stroke
Early and accurate diagnosis is key to treating an ischemic stroke. Dr. Sandeep Vaishya employs state-of-the-art imaging technologies for precise diagnosis, including:
- CT Scan: Helps detect bleeding in the brain or other stroke-related issues.
- MRI Scan: Provides detailed images of brain tissue to identify the affected area.
- Carotid Ultrasound: To check for blockages in the arteries leading to the brain.
- Cerebral Angiography: Uses a contrast dye and X-rays to visualize blood flow in the brain.
Prompt diagnosis enables tailored treatment strategies that can save lives and improve recovery outcomes.
Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke
Immediate treatment is crucial in minimizing brain damage and improving recovery chances. Common treatments include:
- Thrombolysis (Clot-Busting Drugs): tPA (Tissue Plasminogen Activator) is administered to dissolve clots and restore blood flow.
- Mechanical Thrombectomy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove the blood clot.
- Anticoagulants and Antiplatelets: Medications that help prevent new clots from forming.
- Rehabilitation: Physical, occupational, and speech therapies are often needed post-treatment to regain lost functions.
Dr. Sandeep Vaishya focuses on using the most effective, evidence-based treatments to give patients the best chance of recovery.
Cost and Stay in India
India is known for offering world-class healthcare at affordable rates, and stroke treatment is no exception. The cost of treatment depends on several factors, such as the severity of the stroke, the specific treatment approach, and the duration of hospital stay.
- Average cost of AIS treatment in India ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 USD, including surgery, medication, and post-treatment care.
- Hospital stays typically range from 7 to 14 days, depending on the severity of the stroke and recovery process.