Sunday, March 25, 2012

Hemorrhagic Stroke Symptoms -Stiff Neck

Hemorrhagic Stroke—Hemorrhagic Stroke is a stroke that results from an artery rupturing in the brain, causing tissues in that area to die. While less common than ischemic strokes, this stroke usually is more severe.

  • Types of Hemorrhagic Strokes
    • Aneurysms. A weakened part of a blood vessel ruptures.
    • Subarachnoid hemorrhage. Blood leaks between the brain and the skull wall.
    • Intracerebral hemorrhage. Bleeding occurs deep within the brain
  • Hemorrhagic Stroke Symptoms
    • A sudden, extremely severe headache is main symptom
    • Weakness
    • Dizziness
    • Confusion
    • Extreme sensitivity to light
    • Stiff neck
    • Paralysis or unconsciousness in severe cases
  • Diagnosis—Doctors use symptoms, CT scans and a test called a lumbar puncture (tests to find blood in the spinal cord fluid) to determine if it is a hemorrhagic stroke.
  • Treatment—Limiting brain damage is the primary treatment goal for hemorrhagic stroke. Monitoring blood pressure and draining blood from the brain to reduce swelling and prevent damage are two priorities. A subarachnoid hemorrhage requires immediate surgery to repair the ruptured vessel.
  • Results—The effects of a stroke vary among individuals, depending on the area of the brain affected and severity of the stroke. Common effects include the following.
    • Vision difficulties
    • Speech difficulties
    • Paralysis in parts of the body
    • Loss of consciousness
  • Recovery—Most people can resume many of their usual activities once they go home from the hospital. About 20 percent of people who have strokes continue to need help with some tasks; another 15 percent become dependent on others. Stroke patients can benefit from
    • Physical therapy. Keep joints of paralyzed limbs flexible.
    • Occupational therapy. Teaches ways to adapt to new tasks.
    • Speech therapy. Helps with speaking and understanding of language, including learning new ways to communicate.
    • Support groups. Can help with recovery, learning new behaviors, and countering depression.

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