What department should I go to for a stroke?

Written by Tang Bo
Neurology
Updated on September 10, 2024
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Stroke is classified into ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke. If symptoms of a stroke occur, such as slurred speech, limb weakness, or other neurological deficits, one should immediately seek medical attention at the emergency department of a local hospital. Emergency doctors will perform a head CT scan. If ischemia is present, the CT scan might not show changes within 24 hours, in which case a visit to the neurology department is necessary. If hemorrhage is detected, then a visit to the neurosurgery department is required. However, if the symptoms are of a chronic, old stroke, then a visit to the neurology department is needed.

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Written by Li Chao Jin Zi
Neurorehabilitation
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Basic Principles of Stroke Rehabilitation Treatment

There are several key principles for stroke rehabilitation. The first emphasizes that rehabilitation should start as early as possible. In cases of ischemic stroke, generally when the patient is conscious and vital signs are stable, rehabilitation can begin after 48 hours. For patients with high blood pressure or cerebral hemorrhage, it is generally recommended to start rehabilitation after seven days. The second principle emphasizes the active participation of the patient, encouraging patients to actively engage in rehabilitation training and communicate with therapists to achieve functional improvement. The third point emphasizes comprehensive rehabilitation; stroke patients often have issues in multiple areas such as language, cognition, swallowing, limb movement, and functional balance, so it is suggested that patients undergo comprehensive rehabilitation rather than focusing on just one aspect. The fourth point stresses the continuity of rehabilitation, as rehabilitation therapy is an ongoing process.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Clinical manifestations of stroke

Firstly, the patient may experience aphasia, such as not understanding others' conversations and being unable to accurately express their own opinions. Signs of facial paralysis, such as a skewed mouth, drooling, and nasolabial fold, may also appear. Secondly, limb paralysis is a common clinical symptom, generally presenting as hemiplegia. There may also be hemisensory disturbances, such as numbness on one side of the body. Thirdly, patients may experience a decline in cognitive functions, exhibiting slow reactions, reduced memory capabilities, and decreased computational skills. If a stroke affects the posterior circulation, the patient may experience symptoms such as dizziness, double vision, and hemianopia.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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What is a stroke?

Stroke primarily refers to cerebrovascular disease. Acute onset of stroke usually presents with focal neurological deficits, mainly divided into ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. Ischemic stroke, primarily referring to cerebral infarction, occurs due to an interruption in the blood supply to the brain, causing vessel occlusion and resulting in various clinical syndromes. Clinically, it presents rapidly with symptoms such as limb paralysis, slurred speech, and facial drooping. The pathogenesis of ischemic stroke is caused by central arteriosclerosis of large vessels. Additionally, stroke also includes cerebral embolism, mainly referring to atrial fibrillation-induced emboli from wall-attached thrombi, and other foreign bodies causing embolic blockage, leading to necrosis of brain tissue. Stroke also encompasses hemorrhagic stroke, with a typical condition being cerebral hemorrhage, which is due to long-term hypertension causing hyaline degeneration of the small arterial walls, eventually leading to necrosis and rupture with bleeding, resulting in neurological deficits.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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What is good to eat after a stroke?

Stroke primarily refers to cerebrovascular diseases, among which cerebral infarction has the highest incidence rate. Regarding diet after experiencing a cerebral infarction, it mainly falls into two categories: The first category is medications. If it is a cerebral thrombosis, it is crucial to strictly control blood pressure and blood sugar using appropriate medications. Additionally, it is necessary to take medications to prevent the recurrence of thrombosis. These medications primarily include antiplatelet agents and drugs that regulate blood lipids to stabilize plaques. Furthermore, traditional Chinese medicines that invigorate the blood and remove stasis can also be used. These medicines also help to improve blood circulation. In terms of diet, it is essential to follow a low-salt, low-fat diet, avoid overly greasy foods, and eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits regularly. High-quality proteins should also be included, such as drinking milk and eating beef. Whole grains should not be omitted to ensure a balanced diet and promote recovery.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Nursing Care of Thrombolytic Therapy for Stroke

Thrombolytic therapy for stroke is an important tool in the treatment of cerebral thrombosis. If administered within the thrombolytic time window, which is currently within four and a half hours from onset, intravenous thrombolytic treatment can significantly save lives and improve the quality of life for patients. Post-thrombolysis care is also crucial, as there are some complications associated with thrombolytic therapy. It is essential to strictly monitor blood pressure after thrombolysis; typically, blood pressure should be checked every 15 minutes, as high blood pressure can significantly increase the tendency for bleeding. During the care process, it is also important to monitor for signs of bleeding such as nosebleeds, bleeding gums, the appearance of petechiae or ecchymosis on the skin and mucous membranes, and any bleeding in the urinary system. Additionally, changes in the patient’s consciousness and limb mobility should be noted. If the patient experiences worsening paralysis or significant headaches, a cranial CT scan must be promptly revisited. In summary, the nursing care following stroke thrombolytic treatment primarily involves monitoring blood pressure, watching for signs of bleeding, and observing changes in limb mobility and consciousness.