Overview
Cerebrovascular disease concerns the disruption of blood supply to the brain — from a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) to a full stroke.
Stroke is an emergency. Immediate treatment in the acute phase and, afterwards, an organised secondary-prevention plan are decisive for the outcome.
Warning signs (FAST)
Recognising the signs of a stroke and calling emergency services immediately saves lives and brain tissue. The international FAST acronym is an easy way to remember the main warning signs: Face, Arms, Speech and Time.
- F — Face: sudden facial drooping, asymmetry or numbness
- A — Arms: sudden weakness or numbness in one arm or leg
- S — Speech: speech that is slurred, confused or lost
- T — Time: call emergency services immediately, even if symptoms improve
Risk factors
Many risk factors are modifiable, and managing them significantly reduces the risk:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High lipids (cholesterol)
- Atrial fibrillation
- Smoking and a sedentary lifestyle
Assessment after the event
After the acute phase, neurological follow-up focuses on assessing risk factors (blood pressure, blood sugar, lipids, atrial fibrillation), interpreting imaging and performing a neurological examination to evaluate any residual symptoms.
Secondary prevention
The secondary-prevention plan aims to reduce the risk of a new event and includes individualised treatment, control of risk factors and coordination with other specialties where needed.
Support for rehabilitation is part of the overall care. For patients with mobility difficulties, a home neurological visit is also available.
When to see a neurologist
- Emergency: any sudden FAST sign — call emergency services immediately
- After a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), even if symptoms have passed
- For organised secondary prevention after a stroke
- For assessment and management of risk factors