Embolic Stroke Treatment Provided at Tampa General Hospital

Embolic stroke treatment is characterized by making efforts to restore blood flow to the brain as quickly as possible. An embolic stroke is a type of ischemic stroke that occurs due to a buildup of fatty deposits and cholesterol forming an obstruction in the blood vessels of the brain. Thus, blood flow must be restored swiftly in order to reduce the likelihood of long-lasting brain damage.

Symptoms of embolic stroke can vary according to the individual, but they usually come on suddenly.  Muscular symptoms can include a loss of coordination, stiff muscles, and paralysis or numbness of the face, arms, and legs. Some cognitive symptoms are headache, dizziness, confusion, or an altered state of consciousness. Other symptoms can include slurred speech, nausea, blurred or double vision, lethargy, and difficulty swallowing. If you notice any of these symptoms, even if they fluctuate, you should seek medical attention immediately. If you’re with someone you suspect is having a stroke, call 911 right away and observe the person closely while waiting for assistance. Remember, prompt embolic stroke treatment greatly improves a patient’s chances of recovery.     

Embolic stroke treatment may involve:

• Administered medication – Aspirin may be given in order to reduce the probability of another stroke occurring. It can thin the blood and help to prevent blood clots from forming in the blood stream. Another potential medication is tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), which is given to stroke patients intravenously through the arm to dissolve blood clots. However, this form of treatment is only effective if administered a couple of hours after the stroke has occurred.
• Emergency procedures – Depending on where the embolic stroke has occurred, emergency procedures may also be utilized as treatment. The procedures may include carotid endarterectomy, which is the removal of plaque lining the carotid artery in order to improve blood flow, or mechanical clot removal, in which a catheter is inserted into the brain to break up the clot.

Tampa General Hospital delivers specialized embolic stroke treatment 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our team of stroke specialists includes neurologists, neurosurgeons, physicians, neuroradiologists, and other medical professionals who are knowledgeable and equipped to identify embolic stroke symptoms and perform fast, comprehensive stroke treatment and necessary rehabilitation services.