Stroke - FAQs
1. Who treats stroke?It is treated by a neurologist although other specialists may also be involved
2. If I have high blood pressure, will controlling my BP decrease the risk of stroke?
High blood pressure is one of the most important risk factors for developing stroke and reducing it and keeping it normal range will certainly help in the risk reduction.
3. Does ‘birth control pills’ or oral contraceptives increase my risk for stroke?
In women over 35 years the ‘birth control pills’ can raise the risk for stroke but this risk is small. However if there are associated conditions like blood pressure, diabetes or raised cholesterol or if you smoke, then the pills can increase the risks several fold. It may then be advisable to use another form of contraception.
4. What kind of specialized care is available in a hospital for stroke patients?
This varies from hospital to hospital. However there are centres that specialize in caring for stroke patients and these are generally called Stroke Units. These units have physicians, nurses, and ancillary personnel such as physiotherapists, rehabilitation and speech therapists. All the staff specialize and treat only stroke patients. The treatment outcome of these units has been shown to be better than centres that do not have specialists.
5. What is mini-stroke?
A “mini-stroke”, is nothing but a transient ischemic attack (TIA). Many people do not even realize that they suffered a stroke. However a mini-stroke may herald a full blown stroke, hence recognizing it and seeking immediate help is important.
