A massive stroke affects a large section of the brain. It is important to note that a stroke occurs if the blood flow to a region of the brain is disrupted. As a result, the brain tissue is deprived of oxygen which leads to serious consequences.
What are the indications?
The seriousness of the symptoms is based on the site and size of the stroke. The usual signs that might arise include:
- Stiff neck
- Sudden, intense headache
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision or loss of vision
- Balance loss
- Difficulty talking or swallowing
- Weakness or numbness on one side of the face or body
- Sudden confusion
In severe cases, rigidity and even coma can occur.
Emergency care for a massive stroke
Emergency care is vital if an individual is having a stroke. The earlier the treatment is started, the better the chances of survival.
Ischemic
For an ischemic stroke, emergency treatment involves dissolving the clot. Thrombolytics are often given. The doctor might also provide aspirin to prevent the formation of additional blood clots.
Additional treatment might include a procedure to pull out the clot from the artery with small catheters. This is carried out 24 hours after the symptoms arise.
For a massive stroke that involves a large region of the brain, surgery is performed to lessen the buildup of pressure in the brain.
Hemorrhagic
For a hemorrhagic stroke, drugs to lower the blood pressure and slow the bleeding are given. Emergency surgery might be required which is based on the seriousness of the bleeding. The procedure involves repairing the damaged blood vessel and removing any excess blood that places pressure on the brain.
Outcome
The outcome is based on the seriousness of the massive stroke and how quickly treatment was started. Since a massive stroke involves a wide part of the brain, the potential outcome is less favorable.
The outlook is usually better for an ischemic stroke. As for a hemorrhagic stroke that places pressure on the brain, it is likely to result to complications.