Damage to the brain may begin very quickly, so acting fast may help to limit damage to the brain and increase the chances for a full recovery. A stroke may be caused by a blocked blood vessel in the brain. The blockage may form in the brain, or may travel from somewhere else in the bloodstream as well. This may be the most common cause of stroke, although a stroke may also be caused by an artery in the brain leaking or bursting. This may cause bleeding in the brain, or near the surface.

If a stroke is diagnosed quickly, doctors may be able to administer medication to limit further damage to the brain. A doctor may use a CT scan to determine what kind of stroke the patient may be suffering from.

A stroke may cause sudden numbness, weakness or paralysis of the face, arm or leg on one side of the body. Patients may also experience double vision or vision that is blurry or dim. Other symptoms may include confusion, trouble understanding, slurred or problematic speech, trouble walking, dizziness, clumsiness and a severe headache. If symptoms are present, immediately contacting emergency services is very important.

If the stroke is caused by a blockage in a blood vessel in the brain, treatment may involve returning blood flow to the brain. Medication may be effective in dissolving blood clots. If the stroke is caused by a burst or leakage in an artery in the brain, doctors may perform surgery to stop the bleeding or relieve pressure on the brain.

Certain medications may be used as well. After the patient is stable, treatment may involve taking medications and further steps to prevent another stroke. Patients may be required to undergo stroke rehab to regain skills that have been lost or to learn to live with the remaining skills. A health care professional may be helpful in discussing further treatments and rehab after a stroke.

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