Tests for Stroke

  • Stroke
    A stroke is caused by the interruption of the blood supply to the brain, usually because a blood vessel bursts or is blocked by a clot. This cuts off the supply of oxygen and nutrients, causing damage to the brain tissue. The effects of a stroke depend on which part of the brain is injured and how severely it is affected. A very severe stroke can cause sudden death.
Submitted by PatientsEngage on 29 October 2015

What tests do you need to have done?

Stroke is a medical emergency, and anyone suspected of having a stroke should be taken to hospital immediately (delay affects rehab) so that tests can be done and the correct treatment provided as quickly as possible. Tests include:

  • Physical examination and tests like a blood pressure test, blood tests to check cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels. 
  • Ultrasound - a wand waved over the neck can provide a picture that shows whether there is any narrowing or clotting in the arteries.
  • Computerised tomography (CT) scans of the brain can show an area of the brain that has poor blood flow.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain can show moving blood flow and may help evaluate carotid artery blockage.
Community
Neurological Conditions
Stroke Rehab and Recovery
Condition
Stroke

Stories

  • Hope after Stroke
    An inspiring interview of Avinash Godbole who learnt to paint with his left hand, after a paralyzing stroke. Understand what he did to prevent his next stroke Symptoms of stroke are complex.  Understand the importance of acting quickly and following FAST FAST - Face, Arm, Speech, Time Is the Face uneven   Is the Arm hanging down or Leg not working as expected Is the Speech slurred Time - rush to a hospital quickly - within 4.5 hours Watch the video http://youtu.be/HjhYh1WLmIU
  • A stock pic of an elderly person being cared for
    Its ok to cry and laugh, to take time out for yourself
    This touching and poignant documentary – “Portraits of Care” –  looks at the lives of four amazing Caregivers and gives a rare glimpse into the realities of long-term care in India. A husband as caregiver, a wife as caregiver, daughters as caregivers The caregivers share the issues with home care agencies, dealing with absent and interfering relatives, caregiver stress and the financial challenges How to take time out for yourself, how to deal with your anger and frustration…
  • It's called motivation and not wanting to be a victim
    Lucille Markie is a key member of the Integrated Neurological Rehabilitation Foundation in Henderson. She is calling on young people with neurological conditions to attend a series of demonstrations to see what help and support is available to them. "There are a lot of younger people like me in the community but they often don't want to attend groups because strokes can be preconceived as an older generation disability." http://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/10539762/Stroke-won-t-slow-Lucy-down
  • Stroke
    is the loss of brain function due to a sudden disturbance in the blood supply to the brain. As a result of the decreased blood supply, the affected area of the brain cannot function normally, resulting in some of the following effects: Inability to move one or more limbs or face muscles on one side of the body Failure to understand or formulate speech  Inability to see clearly Dizziness or confusion A stroke can happen in an instance and is a medical emergency. Time is critical…