A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted. This stops oxygen and nutrients from reaching brain tissue and can lead to sudden changes in how you move, speak, see, or think. A stroke is always a medical emergency. The quicker it is recognised and treated, the better the chances of recovery.
Dr Osman provides diagnosis and emergency management of strokes and transient ischaemic attacks (TIAs), with full support and management of risk factors to mitigate possible long-term implications for stroke sufferers.
What are the warning signs?
Recognising the symptoms quickly is vital. You should act immediately if you notice:
- Weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side
- Confusion or difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Loss of vision in one or both eyes
- Dizziness, loss of balance, or difficulty walking
- Severe headaches with no apparent cause
If any of these symptoms appear, emergency care is needed immediately.
What is a transient ischaemic attack (TIA)?
A transient ischaemic attack, often referred to as a mini-stroke, happens when your blood supply to your brain is briefly interrupted. The symptoms are similar to a stroke but usually last only a few minutes or hours. Although the effects are temporary, a TIA is a serious warning sign that a major stroke may occur in the future. Seeking medical advice after a TIA is crucial for preventing further complications.
How is a stroke diagnosed?
After emergency treatment, further evaluation is needed to understand the cause of the stroke and reduce the risk of another one. Diagnosis may include:
- A full neurological examination
- Brain imaging, such as CT or MRI scans
- Blood tests to check for underlying conditions
- Ultrasound or angiography to examine blood vessels in your neck or brain
These tests are valuable for Dr Osman to create a long-term care and prevention plan.
What does recovery and management involve?
Strokes can vary from each other, and recovery depends on which part of your brain was affected. The treatment may include:
- Medication to prevent blood clots or control risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol
- Rehabilitation therapies such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy to regain skills
- Lifestyle changes that focus on reducing risks and promoting brain health
How can you reduce your risk of stroke?
Many strokes are linked to lifestyle and medical risk factors. You can lower your risk by:
- Managing high blood pressure and diabetes with treatment and monitoring
- Stopping smoking and limiting alcohol use
- Exercising regularly to improve circulation and overall health
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables, and whole grains
- Taking medication as prescribed to control underlying conditions
These steps can reduce the likelihood of future strokes and support long-term health.
Take the next step
If you have experienced a stroke or a transient ischaemic attack, or if you have risk factors such as high blood pressure or diabetes, seeking neurological care is a vital step. An appointment with Dr Osman can help you understand your condition and develop a clear plan for managing your health.