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Stroke

How Strokes Are Treated

At Riverside, we know that every stroke is different. Stroke treatment depends on the type of stroke, where it happened in the brain, how much time has passed since symptoms started, and the overall health of the patient. Acting quickly and using the right treatments can save lives and help people recover better.

Treatments for Ischemic Stroke (Caused by a Blockage)

An ischemic stroke happens when a blood clot or blockage cuts off blood flow to the brain. Most strokes are ischemic, and fast treatment is critical.

Medical Thrombolytics (Clot-Busting Drugs)

  • A special type of medicine called thrombolytic – or clot buster - can break up blood clots.
  • It must be given within a few (4 ½) hours of when symptoms started.
  • Clot busting medication helps restore blood flow and can reduce the damage caused by a stroke.

Mechanical Thrombectomy

  • A mechanical thrombectomy is a special procedure where doctors use a thin tube (catheter) to physically remove the clot from a blood vessel in the brain.
  • This is often done when the clot is large and blocking a major artery.
  • It can be performed up to 24 hours after symptoms begin in certain patients.

Medical Management

  • Some patients may not qualify for clot-busting drugs or surgery.
  • In these cases, doctors focus on carefully managing blood pressure, blood sugar, and other vital signs.
  • Medications may be used to prevent new clots, protect the brain, and reduce swelling.

Treatments for Hemorrhagic Stroke (Caused by Bleeding)

A hemorrhagic stroke happens when a blood vessel in the brain bursts and causes bleeding. The goal is to stop the bleeding, reduce pressure on the brain, and prevent further damage.

Neurovascular Treatments

  • If the bleeding is caused by an aneurysm (a weak spot in a blood vessel that bulges out like a pouch or balloon), doctors may:
    • Use coiling, where tiny coils are placed inside the aneurysm to block blood flow.
    • Use clipping, where a small metal clip is placed at the base of the aneurysm to stop it from bleeding.

Craniotomy

  • In some cases, a craniotomy is needed.
  • This is a surgery where part of the skull is temporarily removed to allow doctors to remove blood, relieve pressure, and repair damaged blood vessels.

Finding and Treating the Cause of the Stroke

After emergency treatment, the next step is to understand what caused the stroke. This helps prevent future strokes and protect long-term health. Explore some of the most common conditions that increase stroke risk and how they are treated.

Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)

  • AFib is an irregular heartbeat that can cause blood clots to form in a specific portion of the heart.
  • Due to the location, these clots can travel directly to the brain and cause a stroke.
  • Treatment may include:
    • Blood thinners (anticoagulants)
    • Heart rhythm medications
    • Procedures like catheter ablation or cardioversion or a Left Atrial Appendage Closure (LAA Closure), also known as the WATCHMAN™ procedure.

Learn More

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Diabetes and High Blood Sugar

  • Diabetes damages blood vessels over time, leading to higher stroke risk.
  • Management may include:
    • Keeping blood sugar within target range
    • Eating a healthy diet and exercising
    • Taking medications or insulin as needed

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High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

  • Hypertension is the number one risk factor for stroke.
  • It puts stress on blood vessels, making them more likely to rupture or form clots.
  • Treatment may include:
    • Blood pressure medications
    • Reducing salt intake
    • Weight loss and exercise

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High Cholesterol

  • High levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol can cause fatty buildup in arteries.
  • This narrows blood flow and can lead to blockages in the brain.
  • Treatment may include:
    • Statin medications
    • Diet changes and increased physical activity

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Obesity

  • Obesity raises the risk of stroke by contributing to diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
  • Treatment may include:
  • Nutrition and exercise counseling 
  • Weight management programs
  • Possible medical or surgical weight loss options 

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Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO)

  • A PFO is a small hole in the heart that didn’t close after birth.
  • It can allow blood clots to bypass the lungs and travel to the brain.
  • Treatment may include:
    • Blood thinners
    • A procedure to close the hole using a special device

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Preeclampsia

  • A condition in pregnancy marked by high blood pressure and protein in the urine.
  • It increases stroke risk during and after pregnancy.
  • Management may include:

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Sickle Cell Disease

  • A genetic disorder that causes red blood cells to become stiff and misshaped.
  • These cells can block blood flow to the brain, especially in children.
  • Treatment may include:
    • Blood transfusions
    • Medications like hydroxyurea
    • Routine stroke screening in children

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Sleep Apnea

  • Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) causes breathing to stop and start during sleep.
  • It lowers oxygen levels and raises blood pressure, which can lead to stroke.
  • Treatment may include:
    • CPAP therapy (a mask worn during sleep)
    • Weight loss and healthy sleep habits
    • Managing related conditions like obesity, diabetes and hypertension

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Comprehensive Stroke Care at Riverside

At Riverside, our expert team uses the latest treatments and technologies to give each stroke patient the best chance for recovery. From emergency clot removal to careful management of underlying conditions, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Recognizing stroke symptoms early and getting fast medical care can save a life.

If you or a loved one shows signs of stroke, call 911 immediately.

Smoking

  • Smoking damages blood vessels, raises blood pressure, and reduces oxygen levels.
  • It significantly increases the risk of both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.
  • Treatment may include:
    • Quitting smoking with help from medications or counseling
    • Joining support programs or tobacco-free groups

 

Learn More

Comprehensive Stroke Care at Riverside

At Riverside, our expert team uses the latest treatments and technologies to give each stroke patient the best chance for recovery. From emergency clot removal to careful management of underlying conditions, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Recognizing stroke symptoms early and getting fast medical care can save a life.

If you or a loved one shows signs of stroke, call 911 immediately.

Learn More

Resources to be Stroke Smart

Learn about stroke prevention and ways to keep our community Stroke Smart.

Stroke Prevention

Learn more about the risk factors for stroke and steps you can take today to reduce your risk.

Stroke Treatments

Learn about the different stroke treatments available.

Rehabilitation After a Stroke

Regaining strength and function is one of the main goals immediately following a stroke. Discover the different types of therapies and resources helping patients recover after a stroke.

Stroke Smart Community

Explore resources to help our community become stroke smart! Discover materials for teaching schools, business and community groups to recognize the signs and symptoms of stroke.