Strokes occur as a result of an interruption of the blood supply to the brain, leading to neurological damage. This damage can cause significant functional loss in movement, mobility, speech and cognition. The vast majority of strokes (80%) are vascular or ischaemic in nature as a result of thrombus, embolus or blockage of the carotid artery. A smaller proportion are haemorrhagic or caused by bleeding within (intracerebral) or on the surface (subarachnoid) of the brain. No two strokes are the same, and the impact upon the individual is dependent upon a range of factors. The part of the brain affected by stroke is the most significant factor in terms of medical and functional outcomes. The left hemisphere controls the right-hand side of the body and the right hemisphere controls the left-hand side of the body. Figure 34.1 summarises some of the primary functional outcomes following stroke.
Care of the patient following a stroke
What is a stroke?
What happens following a stroke?
Typical stroke care
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