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A stroke, sometimes called a brain attack, is a sudden medical emergency that can change a person’s life within minutes. It occurs when part of the brain is cut off from its normal blood supply. Without oxygen and nutrients, brain cells begin to die rapidly.
There are two main types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic. While ischemic strokes are more common, hemorrhagic strokes are often more severe, as they involve bleeding in or around the brain. Quick medical attention can make all the difference. At Manipal Hospitals Patiala, patients benefit from advanced stroke care and expert specialists available round the clock.
Synopsis
What Exactly Is a Hemorrhagic Stroke?
A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a weakened blood vessel bursts, leading to bleeding inside or around the brain. The leaked blood increases pressure within the skull and damages nearby brain tissue. This condition is sometimes referred to as a brain haemorrhage.
It differs from an ischemic stroke, which is caused by a blood clot blocking an artery. Recognising the difference is crucial because the treatment strategies for each are entirely different.
The Two Types of Hemorrhagic Stroke
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Intracerebral Haemorrhage (ICH): Bleeding directly into brain tissue, often linked to high blood pressure.
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Subarachnoid Haemorrhage (SAH): Bleeding in the space between the brain and its covering, usually caused by a ruptured aneurysm.
Causes
Several conditions can weaken blood vessels and trigger bleeding:
Symptoms
A hemorrhagic stroke often strikes without warning. Symptoms may include:
Diagnosis
Because every minute matters, doctors use urgent imaging tests to confirm a stroke:
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CT Scan: Quickly shows bleeding in the brain.
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MRI: Provides more detailed images and helps identify the cause.
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Cerebral Angiography: Detects aneurysms, AVMs, or other vessel abnormalities.
At Manipal Hospitals Patiala, emergency CT and MRI scans are available 24/7 to ensure no time is lost.
Treatment for Each Type of Stroke
Ischemic Stroke.
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Clot-busting injection (tPA): Works best when given within 4.5 hours of symptom onset.
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Endovascular therapy: A minimally invasive procedure to remove or open blocked arteries.
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Blood thinners: Used to prevent further clot formation in high-risk patients.
Hemorrhagic Stroke.
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Blood pressure control: Helps prevent further bleeding.
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Surgery: May involve removing blood clots, repairing aneurysms, or relieving pressure inside the skull.
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Intensive care: Monitoring, pain management, anti-seizure medicines, and ventilator support if required.
At Manipal Hospitals Patiala, stroke patients are managed by experienced neurologists and neurosurgeons with access to advanced surgical and intensive care facilities.
Hemorrhagic vs. Ischemic Stroke
Although both are forms of stroke, their causes and treatments differ:
|
Feature |
Ischemic Stroke (Clot) |
Hemorrhagic Stroke (Bleed) |
|
Cause. |
Blocked blood vessel. |
Ruptured blood vessel. |
|
Immediate Treatment. |
Clot-busting drugs or procedures. |
Surgery, blood pressure control. |
|
Risk Factors. |
Cholesterol, clotting disorders. |
High blood pressure, aneurysms. |
|
Urgency |
Golden hour for clot treatment. |
Immediate bleeding control. |
Rehabilitation After Stroke
Recovery doesn’t end once the emergency is over. Rehabilitation helps patients regain lost abilities and rebuild independence. At Manipal Hospitals Patiala, tailored recovery plans may include:
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Physiotherapy: Improving strength, balance, and mobility.
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Speech therapy: For communication and swallowing difficulties.
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Occupational therapy: Relearning everyday activities.
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Cognitive rehabilitation: Supporting memory, attention, and problem-solving.
Preventing Future Strokes
Prevention plays a vital role in long-term recovery:
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Keep blood pressure and cholesterol under control.
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Stop smoking and reduce alcohol consumption.
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Exercise regularly and follow a healthy diet.
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Take prescribed medicines consistently.
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Schedule routine check-ups with your doctor.
Why Choose Manipal Hospitals Patiala for Stroke Care?
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24/7 emergency response team for stroke care.
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Highly skilled neurologists, neurosurgeons, and critical care experts.
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Latest CT, MRI, and angiography facilities for quick diagnosis.
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Advanced surgical and medical treatments available under one roof.
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Comprehensive rehabilitation services for long-term recovery.
Concluison
A stroke is a life-changing medical emergency, but with timely treatment, structured rehabilitation, and preventive measures, recovery and quality of life can be greatly improved. While advanced medical care plays a key role in managing both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes, long-term success also depends on adopting a healthy lifestyle and staying consistent with follow-up care. Seeking expert medical guidance at the earliest signs of stroke not only saves lives but also helps minimise long-term complications. With the right blend of immediate treatment, rehabilitation, and preventive strategies, patients can move towards a healthier and more independent future. Book your appointment today!
FAQ's
It is a type of stroke caused by bleeding inside or around the brain when a blood vessel ruptures.
Common causes include high blood pressure, aneurysms, trauma, or the use of blood-thinning medicines.
Severe headache, sudden weakness, vision problems, seizures, and speech difficulties are key warning signs.
A CT scan is the quickest test, followed by an MRI or angiography for more details.
An ischemic stroke is caused by a clot, while a hemorrhagic stroke is caused by a bleed.
Recovery may take weeks to months, depending on severity and rehabilitation progress.
Yes. Managing risk factors like high blood pressure, cholesterol, and smoking reduces the risk.
Early diagnosis, immediate care, and structured rehabilitation greatly improve outcomes.
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