Strokes

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Neurology Consultants of Arizona

Luay Shayya, MD

Neurology & Concussion Specialist located in Scottsdale, AZ

Even though stroke is the fifth-leading cause of death in America, many patients don’t realize that up to 80% of all strokes can be prevented by eliminating their risk factors. Luay Shayya, MD, at Neurology Consultants of Arizona in Scottsdale, Arizona, performs a stroke risk assessment, develops a plan to prevent a stroke, and provides comprehensive medical care after a stroke occurs. To benefit from Dr. Shayya’s expertise in stroke treatment, call the office or schedule an appointment online.

Stroke Q & A

What causes a stroke?

You suffer a stroke when the blood supply to your brain is blocked. Without blood, your brain doesn’t receive oxygen, which leads to the death of brain cells. You can minimize brain damage and improve your chance for recovery if you get treatment within four hours of a stroke.

What symptoms develop due to a stroke?

The FAST acronym was developed to help you remember the key symptoms of a stroke. It also serves as a reminder to act quickly to get life-saving emergency treatment.

FAST stands for:

Face

One side of your face may droop, or one side of your mouth may turn down, which is especially noticeable if you try to smile.

Arm

Many patients develop weakness in one arm. If you raise both arms, you’ll be able to hold one up while the other arm moves downward.

Speech

Your speech may be slurred or you may have difficulty speaking.

Time

Getting rapid treatment is essential; call 911 immediately.

A stroke may also cause:

  • Confusion
  • Severe headache
  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Blurry or double vision
  • Difficulty walking or loss of balance

These symptoms will appear suddenly if they’re due to a stroke.

What are the different types of strokes?

There are two primary types of strokes. An ischemic stroke, the most common type, occurs when an artery is blocked by a blood clot or atherosclerotic plaque. Hemorrhagic strokes occur when a blood vessel ruptures, often due to high blood pressure.

You may also suffer a transient ischemic attack. This is a mini-stroke that lasts only a few minutes and doesn’t cause brain damage. However, a transient ischemic attack is a warning sign that you’re at risk of having a full-blown stroke.

How are strokes treated?

Ischemic strokes are treated by restoring blood flow to your brain. You may need medication to dissolve a blood clot or a procedure to remove the plaque.

If you have a hemorrhagic stroke, your treatment is designed to stop the bleeding and reduce pressure in your brain. Your doctor may prescribe medication or perform a surgical procedure.

Dr. Shayya offers preventive care for his patients, determining their risk for a stroke and creating a treatment plan to lower their chances of having a stroke in the future. He also provides comprehensive post-stroke care, managing your ongoing health, prescribing medications, and supporting your rehabilitation.

To learn your risk for a stroke or to receive ongoing post-stroke care, call Neurology Consultants of Arizona or book an appointment online.