As a medical expert with extensive knowledge in neurology, I can provide you with information on the treatment of ischemic stroke. The primary goal in treating an ischemic stroke is to restore blood flow to the affected area of the brain as quickly as possible to minimize brain damage.
The
only FDA approved treatment for ischemic strokes is
tissue plasminogen activator (
tPA, also known as IV rtPA, given through an IV in the arm).
tPA works by dissolving the clot and improving blood flow to the part of the brain being deprived of blood flow. It is important to note that
tPA must be administered within a 4.5-hour window from the onset of stroke symptoms to be effective.
In addition to
tPA, other treatments may include:
1.
Aspirin therapy to help prevent further clotting.
2.
Anticoagulants to prevent clot formation.
3.
Antiplatelet medications to reduce the stickiness of platelets and prevent clot formation.
4.
Thrombectomy, a procedure to physically remove the clot, which can be performed in certain cases where
tPA is not an option or has not been effective.
After the acute phase, patients often undergo rehabilitation to help recover from any disabilities caused by the stroke. This may include physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
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