> Initial Stroke - what to expect
Tests are performed to determine the type, location, and cause
of the Stroke and to rule out other disorders that may be responsible
for the symptoms. There have been enormous breakthoughs over recent
years in Stroke and medical tests will begin as soon as you arrive
at the hospital in order to determine the most appropriate treatment.
It is important to speak with your Doctor to understand what tests
are being conducted and to enquire about the results. The Medical
team will determine what tests are required depending on the presenting
symptoms and the condition of the patient. These are some of the
tests which may be undertaken:
CT or CAT Scan: This is an X-ray imaging test
done on the brain. It is used to determine if the Stroke was caused
by bleeding (Haemorrhage) or a blockage (Ischaemic). They give the
medical team a visual picture of the brain and they may use it to
define the location and extent of the Stroke.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) Scan:
This is another imaging test which gives the medical team a very
accurate and detailed picture of the brain. These are used to determine
the presence, location and size of aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations,
which are potential sources for Haemorrhagic Stroke. The patient
is placed in a magnetic field, then the head is subjected to bursts
of energy of a known frequency. The response of the brain cells
to these bursts of energy is detected as signals that ultimately
generate an image of the brain.
ECG (Electrocardiogram): This is used to check
the electrical activity of the heart. It is used to check if your
heartbeat is regular and is used to diagnose any heart conditions
that may be linked to the Stroke.
Echocardiogram: This is a test that uses sound
waves to create a moving picture of the heart. It is used in Stroke
to determine if the Stroke may have been caused by a blood clot
from the heart.
Carotid duplex: This is a procedure that uses
ultrasound to look at the blood flow in the Carotid artery of your
neck. It is used to check if there are any abnormalities in the
blood flow, which may be caused by blood clots or other matter blocking
the artery.
Heart Monitor: This is a device attached to your
body to determine if a heart arrhythmia (such as Atrial fibrillation)
may be responsible for your Stroke.
Blood work: This may be done to exclude immune
conditions or abnormal clotting of the blood that can lead to clot
formation. Blood tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC), blood
sugar, electrolytes, liver and kidney function, and prothrombin
time, a test that measures how long it takes your blood to clot,
may be carried out. These tests are done to help your doctor make
choices about your treatment and to check for conditions that may
cause symptoms similar to Stroke.
For more information go to: www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003799.htm
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