Diagnosing A Stroke

If you suspect you are a loved one may have had a stroke, it is essential that you seek immediate medical attention even if the symptoms seem to go away on their own. When a patient is suspected of having a stroke, a physician will run a series of tests in order to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best form of treatment.

The first step in this procedure is to examine the patient's medical history and inquire about the symptoms they are currently experiencing or any past symptoms they may have had.  If the patient is unable to communicate, a family member or friend may assist the physician in providing the necessary information. 

Initial Examination in Diagnosing a Stroke 

A full medical examination is one of the first things that will be done when a patient is suspected of having a stroke. The patient's vital signs will be checked as well as detailed testing to evaluate the nerves and muscles which will consist of a testing the patients reflexes, strength, sensation, and coordination.

Questions will also be asked to determine any motor skills or cognitive impairment that includes speech, memory, or thinking. After these initial tests are completed, additional testing may be ordered or the patient may be referred to a neurologist or a brain surgeon or specialist. 

Routine Lab Testing and Image Tests 

When additional testing is required routine blood tests will be taken as well as more specific testing to evaluate the blood vessels, brain, or heart. The most common form of testing done when a patient is suspected of having a stroke is image testing that will show a three dimensional image of the brain or the brain and spinal chord.

A "CAT" scan or "computed axial tomography" will be performed that can detect an "ischemic stroke" or "hemorrhagic stroke" or any other problems within the brain or brainstem. An "MRI" or "magnetic resonance imaging" scan may also be performed that will show the brain as well as the spinal chord and is capable of showing a more detailed image than a CAT scan. 

Test to Check the Blood Supply to the Brain 

There are several tests that may be performed in order to check the blood vessels that supply blood flow to the brain. These include a "carotid doppler" which is an ultrasound that will show an image of the carotid arteries within the neck area as well as the flow of blood to the brain.

Similar tests that show images of the flow of blood and blood vessels of the brain include a "transcranial doppler", "magnetic resonance angiogram" or "MRA", and a "cerebral arteriogram". Heart testing may also be performed to view images of the heart or check its functioning as well as other testing of the major organs within the body and more specific forms of neurological testing. 

While a physician is able to make an accurate diagnosis with these tests, the exact cause of a stroke may not be determined for a long period of time and in some cases the exact cause may never be discovered. A stroke is considered a medical emergency; therefore, if you or a loved experiences any signs or symptoms that are associated with a stroke, it is essential that you seek emergency medical assistance.