Symptoms of a stroke can include:

• Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Vision problems in one or both eyes
• Dizziness or loss of balance or coordination
• Severe headache with no known cause

Diagnosis of a stroke involves a physical examination, an evaluation of medical history and neurological examination, CT scan or MRI of the brain, blood test and other tests to determine the cause.

Treatment for a stroke will depend on the type of stroke and the cause. Some common treatments include:

• Medications to dissolve blood clots or stop bleeding
• Surgery to remove a clot or repair a ruptured blood vessel
• Rehabilitation to help with recovery and regain strength and function
• Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise to reduce the risk of future stroke.

It is important to note that a stroke is a medical emergency, and immediate treatment is crucial to minimize brain damage and long-term disability. If you suspect someone is experiencing a stroke, call emergency services right away.

To learn more about stroke please click on https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stroke/

Dr Ibrahim Yahli MD MRCPsych