Stroke Care

Stroke care involves the medical treatment and rehabilitation provided to individuals who have experienced a stroke. Timely intervention and comprehensive care are critical in minimizing brain damage, improving recovery, and enhancing quality of life. The approach to stroke care typically includes three key stages: acute care, post-acute care, and rehabilitation. Acute care focuses on stabilizing the patient immediately after a stroke and preventing further brain damage. It typically occurs within the first few hours to days of the stroke event.

Time is crucial when treating a stroke. The faster treatment begins, the better the outcome. The phrase "time is brain" underscores how each minute of delay can result in significant brain cell death. In both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, controlling blood pressure is crucial to prevent further damage. After the initial stabilization, patients move into post-acute care. This phase aims to prevent complications and optimize recovery.

Rehabilitation plays a key role in improving physical, emotional, and cognitive function after a stroke. This phase typically begins as soon as the patient is medically stable and can continue for months or even years. The faster treatment begins, the better the chances of recovery and minimizing brain damage. Post-stroke care focuses on reducing the risk of a second stroke through medications (e.g., antiplatelets or anticoagulants) and lifestyle changes.