What is a Stroke?

A stroke, often referred to as a "brain attack," occurs when the blood flow to a part of the brain is disrupted, leading to damage or death of brain cells due to lack of oxygen and nutrients. Strokes can be ischemic, caused by a blockage in an artery supplying blood to the brain, or hemorrhagic, caused by bleeding into or around the brain. Strokes are medical emergencies that require immediate attention, as prompt treatment is critical to minimize brain damage and prevent long-term disability or death

Common Symptoms of a Stroke​

Sudden Weakness or Numbness

Weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, often on one side of the body.

Difficulty Speaking or Understanding

Confusion, slurred speech, difficulty speaking, or understanding others.

Trouble Walking

Sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or difficulty walking.

Severe Headache

Sudden, severe headache, especially with no known cause.

Vision Changes

Sudden vision changes, such as blurred vision or loss of vision in one or both eyes.

Facial Drooping

Drooping or asymmetry of the face, especially when smiling.

Whom to Consult?​ and When to Consult?​

If you or someone else experiences symptoms suggestive of a stroke, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention at SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai.
Dr. Ilankumaran

Dr. Ilankumaran

MBBS, MS, MCH

Senior Consultant

Dr. C. Sekar

Dr. C. Sekar

MBBS, MS, MCH

Consultant

Dr. Y. Premchand

Dr. Y. Premchand

MBBS, MS, MCH

Associate Consultant

Dr. T.P. Jeya Selva  Senthilkumar

Dr. T.P. Jeya Selva Senthilkumar

MBBS, MS, MCH

Consultant

Schedule an appointment with Neuro Science Today

Consult our emergency care experts immediately if you experience​​

Common FAQs About Stroke

Q: What causes a stroke?

A: Strokes are typically caused by conditions that disrupt blood flow to the brain, such as atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries), blood clots, or bleeding into the brain. Risk factors for stroke include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and family history of stroke.

Q: How is a stroke diagnosed?

A: Diagnosis of a stroke may involve medical history assessment, physical examination, neurological evaluation, imaging tests such as CT scan or MRI, and blood tests to determine the type and extent of brain damage and identify the underlying cause of the stroke.

Q: What is the treatment for a stroke?

A: Treatment for a stroke depends on the type, cause, and severity of the stroke. It may include medication (such as clot-busting drugs or anticoagulants), surgery (such as thrombectomy or craniotomy), rehabilitation therapy (such as physical therapy, speech therapy, or occupational therapy), and lifestyle modifications to prevent recurrent strokes.

Q: Can strokes be prevented?

A: While not all strokes can be prevented, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, managing risk factors (such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity), avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and seeking regular medical care can help reduce the risk of stroke and improve overall cardiovascular health.