The Medical City Institute of Neurological Sciences
4/F Podium Bldg., The Medical City, Ortigas Ave. Pasig City

Operating Hours: Open daily from 8:00AM to 5:00PM except Sundays and Holidays (All procedures are by appointment only)

Contact Numbers
(632) 8-988-1000/(632) 8-988-7000 loc. 6270

PATIENT SERVICES

Treatment for Ischemic Stroke in the Philippines

What is Ischemic Stroke?

An ischemic stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is obstructed or completely blocked. Without proper ischemic stroke treatment, this medical emergency deprives brain tissue from receiving oxygen and nutrients, causing them to die and even leading to long-lasting damage, disability, or even death. The blockage is typically caused by a blood clot or buildup of fatty deposits (atherosclerosis) within the blood vessels.

Ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke. It can develop suddenly, and the severity of the stroke depends on the size and location of the blockage. Quick recognition and treatment are crucial in minimizing brain damage and improving recovery outcomes.

What are the Types of Ischemic Stroke?

There are two main types of ischemic stroke: thrombotic stroke and embolic stroke.

• Thrombotic Stroke: This occurs when a blood clot forms directly in one of the arteries that supply blood to the brain. Thrombotic strokes are often linked to atherosclerosis, where fatty deposits build up in the blood vessels over time, narrowing the arteries and increasing the likelihood of a clot forming. This type of ischemic stroke is more common in older individuals or those with risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol.


• Embolic Stroke: In an embolic stroke, a blood clot or other debris forms elsewhere in the body—commonly in the heart—and travels through the bloodstream until it gets lodged in a brain artery, causing a blockage. This type of stroke is often associated with heart conditions like atrial fibrillation, which can cause blood to pool and form clots in the heart before traveling to the brain.

Both types of ischemic stroke disrupt the brain’s blood supply, but the causes and treatment approaches may vary slightly depending on the specific type.

How Do I Know If I’m Suffering From Ischemic Stroke?

Recognizing ischemic stroke symptoms is critical for getting timely medical attention, which can significantly improve your chances of recovery. The most effective way to remember stroke symptoms is by using the acronym FAST:

• Face Drooping: One side of the face may droop or feel numb. When smiling, the smile may appear uneven.
• Arm Weakness: Sudden weakness or numbness in one arm. When attempting to raise both arms, one may drift downward.
• Speech Difficulty: Trouble speaking, slurred speech, or difficulty understanding speech.
• Time to Call Emergency Services: If any of these symptoms are present, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately

Other symptoms of an ischemic stroke may include sudden confusion, vision problems in one or both eyes, severe headache without a known cause, dizziness, loss of coordination, or difficulty walking. If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, call emergency services right away. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of avoiding brain damage and preventing long-term disability.

What is the Treatment for Ischemic Stroke?

Treatment for ischemic stroke is time-sensitive, with the goal of restoring blood flow to the brain as quickly as possible to minimize damage. Here are the main treatment options:

• Thrombolytic Therapy (Clot-Busting Drugs): The most common treatment for an ischemic stroke is a drug called tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), which dissolves the blood clot causing the blockage. This drug is most effective when given within 3 to 4.5 hours after the stroke's onset. Timely administration of tPA can significantly improve recovery outcomes.


• Mechanical Thrombectomy: For larger blood clots that cannot be treated with tPA alone, doctors may perform a procedure called mechanical thrombectomy. In this procedure, a catheter is inserted into a large artery in the groin and guided up to the brain to physically remove the clot. Mechanical thrombectomy is most effective within 24 hours of stroke symptoms and is often used for severe cases.


• Blood Thinners and Antiplatelet Medications: To prevent future strokes, patients may be prescribed medications such as blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) or antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin). These medications reduce the risk of clot formation in the arteries and are part of long-term stroke management.


• Rehabilitation: After the immediate treatment, stroke survivors often need rehabilitation to regain lost function. Depending on the extent of brain damage, physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy may be necessary to help patients recover mobility, speech, and other skills affected by the stroke.