A stroke starts when the blood flow to a part of the brain is suddenly disrupted. It's a critical condition that usually demands urgent attention. Timely treatment is needed to reduce potential brain damage. Learn more about treatments on this page: https://chouneurosurgery.com/condition/strokes/.
Strokes vary in severity. Some cause mild impairments, while others may lead to severe debilitation or even death in extreme cases. On this page, you will learn about the right specialist to see for strokes in Singapore. You will also learn about the symptoms that may hint at a stroke.
What type of Doctor should I see if I had a Stroke?
If you or a loved one has had a stroke, the situation can get a little confusing especially, if it is the first time you're witnessing the condition. So you may wonder, what type of doctor should I see if I had a stroke?
More on that later, in the event of a stroke, your best bet is to seek immediate medical attention. Specialists at the Chou Neuroscience Clinic play a key role in comprehensive care for those who report strokes in Singapore.
The facility is fully equipped to help with effective treatment and recovery. Now, there are different specialists you can see for strokes in Singapore. As part of your treatment team, here are some of the specialists you may meet;
- Vascular Neurologist: These neurologists specialize in cerebrovascular diseases and vascular conditions of the central nervous system. They're skilled in the diagnosis and management of strokes in Singapore. A vascular neurologist can help you with a tailored treatment plan if you're diagnosed with stroke. Depending on your condition and unique needs, your treatment plan may include administering clot-busting medications or other interventions to restore blood flow to the brain.
- Neuroradiologist: Just as it sounds, neuroradiologists specialize in radiology. They focus on diagnosing conditions that affect the central and peripheral nervous systems. A qualified neuroradiologist can interpret imaging scans like MRIs, CT scans, and angiograms to identify abnormalities, such as blood clots or brain hemorrhages. These specialists assist in guiding treatment decisions by providing detailed insights into the nature and location of the stroke.
- Neurologist: These physicians specialize in treating a wide array of brain, spinal cord, and nervous system disorders. Neurologists play a crucial role in stroke management. They're particularly important in post-stroke care where they can monitor recovery progress, and address complications like seizures or cognitive impairments.
- Neurosurgeon: Again, just as the name suggests, neurosurgeons are trained in both neurology and surgery. Thanks to their specialization, these specialists can perform intricate surgical procedures specific to the nervous system. In cases where immediate intervention is necessary, such as removing blood clots or repairing damaged blood vessels in the brain, a neurosurgeon may be needed. They play a key role in minimizing further damage and help in smoother recovery.
- Neurophysiologist: These specialists study the central and peripheral nervous systems' bioelectrical activity through recordings. They aid in diagnosing nervous system disorders, providing valuable insights that complement other specialists' assessments. They're particularly helpful in cases where complex neurological conditions accompany strokes.
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) or Physiatrist: This group of specialists focuses on enhancing functional abilities and improving the quality of life. So, physiatrists or PM&R specialists may be brought in to work with you on post-stroke rehabilitation. Thanks to their knowledge, you can count on these specialists to create a personalized therapy plan to help you regain not just mobility but also strength, and independence. These can be achieved via guided physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other interventions.
What are the 5 Warning Signs of a Stroke?
To begin, every year, thousands of people suffer strokes in Singapore and don't even know about it. These strokes are known as silent strokes and can occur without giving out any noticeable symptoms.
Unlike typical strokes, these silent episodes don't manifest immediate signs but may contribute to memory loss and cognitive decline gradually. So, if you were wondering if you could have a stroke without even knowing it, the answer is an absolute yes. The good news is that you could tell if you're having a stroke.
Now, when it comes to identifying stroke symptoms, the FAST test is a simple yet effective tool. The acronym stands for Face, Arms, Speech, and Time. It is a very easy method to recognize common signs of a stroke in yourself or others. Here's how to use the FAST test to check for the warning signs of stroke;
- Face: Start by smiling and observe if one side of the face droops. Facial drooping, particularly on one side, is a classic indicator of a stroke.
- Arms: Raise both arms and check if one arm drifts downwards. In the case of a stroke, one arm might be weaker, making it difficult to keep both arms elevated.
- Speech: Speak a short phrase and listen for any slurring or strange speech patterns. Difficulty in articulating words or sudden speech changes could signify a stroke.
- Time: If any of these signs appear, it's crucial to act swiftly. Call an ambulance immediately and note down the time when symptoms commenced. Time is critical in stroke treatment, so avoid delaying by waiting or driving to the hospital yourself. Emergency medical services can swiftly assess the situation, increasing the chances of receiving prompt and appropriate treatment.
Other than the FAST test, here are a few more warning signs of strokes to take note of;
I. Sudden Numbness or Weakness: This may be felt particularly on one side of the body, where it affects the face, arm, or leg. This sudden weakness or numbness can disrupt normal movement.
II. Difficulty Speaking: Suddenly experiencing trouble speaking or understanding speech. It may result in slurred speech or difficulty comprehending conversations.
III. Vision Problems: Sudden trouble with vision in one or both eyes. The vision problems can range from blurred to blackened vision, etc.
IV. Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or experiencing a sudden onset of dizziness or loss of balance without an apparent cause.
V. Confusion: Abrupt confusion or difficulty understanding others. This symptom is often accompanied by mental disorientation.
VI. Severe Headache: A sudden, severe headache with no known cause. It could be more intense than previous headaches.
VII. Coordination Problems: Difficulty walking, maintaining balance, or sudden lack of coordination.
Remember, these symptoms might appear gradually or abruptly. Even if uncertain about experiencing a stroke, it's vital to seek immediate medical help by calling emergency services.
Time is of the essence in any case or strokes in Singapore. Prompt treatment can significantly reduce potential damage to the brain and enhance chances of recovery.
It's a Wrap!
When it comes to strokes in Singapore, time is of the essence, so do not wait to be driven to the hospital or attempt to drive yourself there. Call emergency services for immediate help.
To learn more about strokes in Singapore or schedule an appointment for thorough assessment and treatment, please call or visit the Chou Neuroscience Clinic today at;
CHOU Neurosurgery Clinic (Farrer Park) - Brain & Spine Specialist Singapore
1 Farrer Park Station Road
#08-06 Connexion
Singapore 217562
OR
6 Napier Road
#08-08 Gleneagles Medical Centre
Singapore 258499
+65 6694 7942
This is a guest blog entry.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Your comments are welcome.