A stroke is the third-leading cause of death in the United States and the leading cause of long-term disability. The experienced team at North Atlanta Vascular Clinic, with offices in Suwanee/Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Cumming and Lawrenceville, Georgia, can assess your risk of a stroke and provide care that may help prevent you from having a stroke. For an evaluation, call the office nearest you today or request an appointment online.
Book OnlineA stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood supply to your brain is cut off or significantly diminished. Lack of oxygen for a prolonged period of time leads to tissue death and may affect body function. The lack of blood flow may occur from various causes, including:
Ischemic stroke
Most strokes are ischemic strokes, which develop when the arteries to your brain become blocked or narrowed, significantly decreasing the flow of blood to your brain.
Hemorrhagic stroke
A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in your brain ruptures or leaks. You may be at risk of a hemorrhagic stroke if you have high blood pressure or take blood-thinning medication.
Transient ischemic attack (TIA)
A TIA is sometimes referred to as a mini-stroke and occurs when there’s a temporary decrease in blood flow to your brain. This type of stroke occurs when a blood clot or debris blocks the flow of blood to your brain temporarily. A TIA doesn’t usually lead to long-term brain damage.
It’s not always possible to tell if you’re having a stroke based on your symptoms, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have tissue damage.
You need to get medical attention right away if you suspect you or a loved one is having a stroke. Knowing the signs of a stroke may help you get the care you need quickly.
Common signs that may indicate a stroke include:
Even if the symptoms don’t last, you need an evaluation.
The team at North Atlanta Vascular Clinic provide carotid ultrasound testing, which may be able to assess your risk of having a stroke so you can make the necessary changes to improve your health and lower your risk. During this noninvasive procedure, your specialist uses ultrasound technology to assess blood flow through your carotid artery, which is the main artery to your brain.
If the artery is narrowed, your specialist may recommend treatment to improve blood flow to your brain, such as:
Your specialist may also be able to perform a procedure to remove the blockage or stop a blood clot from reaching your brain.
Taking care of your health now may help prevent a stroke. Call North Atlanta Vascular Clinic today for a risk assessment or request an appointment online.
