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Stroke Detection and Diagnosis

Cerebral Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
The first and most important test after a stroke is a CT scan, which is a series of X-rays of your brain that can help identify whether there is bleeding. This test will help your doctor determine whether the stroke is ischemic or hemorrhagic.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan
An MRI is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of organs and structures inside the body. In many cases, MRI gives information that cannot be seen on an X-ray, ultrasound, or computed tomography (CT) scan. An MRI can determine the amount of damage to the brain and help predict recovery.

Cerebral Angiography
The gold standard test used to visualize the blood vessels which supply the brain. An angiogram is considered minimally invasive and is performed through the artery in the leg. A small tube (catheter) is navigated with X-ray guidance to the blood vessels in the neck. X-ray pictures are then obtained of the blood vessels in the neck and brain. An angiogram helps to identify blockages that cause ischemic stroke. This test also identifies aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations, which cause hemorrhagic stroke. An angiogram can help to lay the groundwork for treatment.

Cerebral Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
The first and most important test after a stroke is a CT scan, which is a series of X-rays of your brain that can help identify whether there is bleeding. This test will help your doctor determine whether the stroke is ischemic or hemorrhagic.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan
An MRI is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of organs and structures inside the body. In many cases, MRI gives information that cannot be seen on an X-ray, ultrasound, or computed tomography (CT) scan. An MRI can determine the amount of damage to the brain and help predict recovery.

Cerebral Angiography
The gold standard test used to visualize the blood vessels which supply the brain. An angiogram is considered minimally invasive and is performed through the artery in the leg. A small tube (catheter) is navigated with X-ray guidance to the blood vessels in the neck. X-ray pictures are then obtained of the blood vessels in the neck and brain. An angiogram helps to identify blockages that cause ischemic stroke. This test also identifies aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations, which cause hemorrhagic stroke. An angiogram can help to lay the groundwork for treatment.

More Information

The Stroke Center

Enhance Your Stroke Awareness

Detection and Diagnosis

Treatment Options

Prevention, Risk and Symptoms


The Stroke Center Patient Survey


American Stroke Association

Stroke Connection Magazine
 
The Internet Stroke Center
 
Prevention Magazine

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For assistance in finding a general physician who can help determine if you are at high risk for stroke, please call Direct Doctors Plus at 388-4888.

Warning Signs of Stroke

Warning signs of possible stroke may include a combination of symptoms. Call 9-1-1 immediately if you experience, or witness someone else experiencing, the following:
  • Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
  • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or difficulty understanding others
  • Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
  • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
  • Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

Note: The information on this Web site is provided as general health guidelines and may not be applicable to your particular health condition. Your individual health status and any required medical treatments can only be properly addressed by a professional healthcare provider of your choice. Remember: There is no adequate substitution for a personal consultation with your physician. Neither Spring Valley Hospital Medical Center, or any of their affiliates, nor any contributors shall have any liability for the content or any errors or omissions in the information provided by this Web site.
 
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