Ischemic Stroke: A Medical Emergency That Requires Immediate Treatment to Prevent Paralysis

Ischemic stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or severely reduced, depriving the brain of oxygen and essential nutrients. When this happens, brain cells begin to die within minutes. Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability, especially if left untreated.

Causes of Ischemic Stroke

An ischemic stroke happens from a blockage in the brain’s blood vessels or in the arteries supplying blood to the brain. Common causes include:

1. Blood clots that form in the brain’s arteries or travel from the heart to block cerebral vessels
2. Atherosclerosis, where fatty deposits narrow blood vessels
3. Atrial fibrillation, which increases the risk of clot formation in the heart
4. Underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol
5. Lifestyle factors like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise

Symptoms of Ischemic Stroke

Symptoms usually appear suddenly and require urgent medical attention. The BEFAST rule helps identify early warning signs:

1. B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance, dizziness, or unsteady walking
2. E – Eyes: Blurred vision, double vision, or vision loss in one or both eyes
3. F – Face Drooping: One side of the face appears uneven or cannot smile symmetrically
4. A – Arm Weakness: Weakness or numbness in one arm or leg
5. S – Speech Difficulty: Slurred speech, inability to speak, or difficulty understanding speech
6. T – Time to Call: Call an ambulance immediately if any of these signs appear

Other possible symptoms include severe dizziness, double vision, loss of coordination, or loss of consciousness.

Diagnosis of Ischemic Stroke

Doctors use several tests to identify the cause and location of the blockage:

1. Neurological and physical examinations
2. CT Scan or MRI
3. MRA/CTA to examine cerebral blood vessels
4. ECG to detect abnormal heart rhythms
5. Blood tests to assess risk factors

Treatment for Ischemic Stroke

Treatment must be initiated urgently to reduce brain damage.

1. Intravenous thrombolytic therapy (rt-PA) within 4.5 hours of symptom onset
2. Medication to prevent recurrent clots, such as antiplatelets or anticoagulants
3. Supportive care, including blood pressure control, glucose management, and rehabilitation
4. Thrombectomy using Biplane DSA

Thrombectomy with Biplane DSA

Mechanical thrombectomy is a highly effective method to remove clots blocking brain arteries. A neurovascular specialist inserts a small catheter through an artery in the groin and retrieves the clot from the affected brain vessel. Using Biplane Digital Subtraction Angiography (Biplane DSA) enables specialists to view real-time images of the brain’s blood vessels from two angles simultaneously. This enhances precision and reduces procedural risk.

Vejthani International Hospital’s neurovascular team is equipped to perform thrombectomy using advanced Biplane DSA technology. This imaging system improves treatment accuracy, minimizes complications, and ensures holistic, comprehensive care for every patient.

Benefits of Thrombectomy with Biplane DSA

1. Reduces brain damage and increases chances of recovery
2. Lowers the risk of additional tissue injury
3. Shortens treatment time and increases survival rates
4. Suitable for patients who arrive within 24 hours of symptom onset

Prevention of Ischemic Stroke

1. Maintain healthy blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol levels
2. Eat a balanced diet with reduced salt and saturated fat
3. Exercise regularly
4. Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption
5. Undergo annual health check-ups to detect early risks

Ischemic stroke is a race against time. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking immediate treatment can significantly improve survival outcomes and reduce long-term disability. With today’s advanced Biplane DSA technology, treatment is safer and faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Ischemic Stroke be treated?

Yes. If treated promptly, especially within 24 hours using Biplane DSA—patients have a significantly higher chance of recovery and reduced disability.

How is Biplane DSA different from conventional treatment?

Biplane DSA provides simultaneous two-angle imaging of cerebral blood vessels, giving doctors clearer visualization of the clot’s location. This increases precision and enhances safety during the procedure.

What should I do when stroke symptoms appear?

Call an ambulance or go to the hospital immediately. Every minute counts, as brain cells begin to die within minutes of symptom onset.

For more information, please contact
Neuroscience Center, Vejthani International Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 5400, 5444
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

Medically Reviewed by

DR. VONGKANOK KOWATANAMONGKON

Neurology

Medical Neurology - Stroke and Vascular

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