Exploring Stroke Types: Ischemic Vs. Hemorrhagic

Strokes, often referred to as brain attacks, occur when there is a disruption in blood flow to the brain, resulting in the deprivation of oxygen and vital nutrients to brain cells. Since these occurrences might have serious repercussions, it is essential to comprehend the two main kinds of strokes: ischemic and hemorrhagic.

Ischemic Stroke: The Blockage

Ischemic strokes, which make up around 80% of all strokes, happen when a clot or plaque accumulation blocks an artery, preventing blood flow to a specific area of the brain. A clot that forms in the brain (thrombotic stroke) or one that travels from another part of the body, usually the heart, and lodges in a brain artery (embolic stroke) could be the cause of the blockage. High blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and high cholesterol are common risk factors for ischemic strokes.

Recognizing Ischemic Stroke:

• Sudden weakness or numbness, usually on one side of the body
• Difficulty comprehending or speaking in speech
• issues with one or both eyes’ vision
• abruptly intense headache
• Loss of coordination or difficulty walking

The goal of post-ischemic stroke physiotherapy is to treat the deficits brought on by the absence of blood flow to a particular region of the brain. Typical methods include of:

1. Exercises for Strengthening and Mobility:

Physiotherapists create workouts to help afflicted limbs or body parts move more freely and have greater strength and range of motion. To recover control and function, this may entail exercises targeted at the injured muscles.

2. NDT, or neuro-developmental techniques:

Normalising muscle tone and promoting regular movement patterns are the main goals of NDT. Methods include assisting motions in order to improve motor coordination and control.

3. Movement Therapy Induced by Constraints (CIMT):

CIMT, which is frequently utilised for upper limb weakness, limits the unaffected limb’s range of motion, requiring the affected limb to be used and strengthened.

4. Training Specific to Tasks:

 Patients’ functional capacities are enhanced and necessary motions for daily activities are re-learned through the use of activities that mimic everyday chores.

Hemorrhagic Stroke: The Bleed

On the other hand, bleeding into or around the brain results from the rupture of a weak blood vessel in hemorrhagic strokes. About 20% of strokes are of this type, which is usually more severe and potentially fatal. Aneurysms (bulges in blood vessels) and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), aberrant tangles of blood arteries in the brain, are the two main causes of hemorrhagic strokes.

Identifying Hemorrhagic Stroke:

abrupt, excruciating headache

vomiting and nausea

numbness or weakness

Absence of awareness

difficulty speaking or swallowing

Following a hemorrhagic stroke, physiotherapy is more cautious because of the possible hazards related to greater physical strain. Important things to think about are:

1.Careful Monitoring and Gradual Progression:

Monitoring the patient’s condition, guaranteeing stability, and averting problems are frequently the main goals of initial therapy. It’s imperative to increase therapy intensity gradually to prevent more bleeding or injury.

2. Training in Coordination and Balance:

 Exercises that improve coordination, balance, and stability are essential because these abilities may be impacted after a hemorrhagic stroke. To avoid putting too much tension on the afflicted areas, therapists focus on using soft movements.

3. Cardiovascular Fitness:

Promoting safe aerobic activity within the patient’s limits is crucial for enhancing their general recovery and endurance.

4. Functional Training:

Just like in ischemic strokes, functional abilities and independence are improved by introducing exercises that mimic everyday chores.

Surgery Treatment for acute stroke 

In acute stroke cases, craniotomy might be performed in specific situations, such as to relieve pressure caused by swelling or bleeding in the brain. However, it’s essential to note that the treatment for acute stroke typically involves medications like clot-busting drugs (thrombolytics) or clot removal procedures (thrombectomy) rather than craniotomy, which is more commonly used in other brain conditions or injuries. The choice of treatment depends on the type and cause of the stroke.

In summary:

While the ultimate goal of physiotherapy remains improving function and quality of life after a stroke, the tailored approach is crucial. To maximise recovery and stop additional harm, both kinds of strokes require a customised rehabilitation strategy that takes into account the individual’s health, the kind and severity of the stroke, and any related consequences. For the best results, the therapy plan must be modified and assessed on a regular basis.