How is stroke diagnosed?
A person with stroke can be diagnosed based on a clinical evaluation. The face may not be symmetrical. The mouth droops and the patient is unable to show the teeth fully when smiling. He is unable to lift an arm above shoulder level. He may have a hard time talking clearly. A CT (Computed Tomography) scan or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan can confirm the diagnosis.
The doctor will usually start by asking the patient what happened and when the symptoms began. Then the doctor will ask the patient some questions to see if she or he is thinking clearly. The doctor also will test the patient’s reflexes to see if she or he may have had any physical damage. This helps the doctor find out which tests are needed. The doctor may order one or more of the following tests: • Imaging tests that give a picture of the brain. These include CT (computed tomography) scanning, sometimes called CAT scans and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scanning. CT scans are useful for finding out if a stroke is caused by a blockage or by bleeding in the brain. • Electrical tests, such as EEG (electroencephalogram) and an evoked response test to record the electrical impulses and sensory processes of the brain. • Blood flow tests, such as Doppler ultrasound tests, to show any changes in the blood flow to the brain.
The doctor will usually start by asking the patient what happened and when the symptoms began. Then the doctor will ask the patient some questions to see if she or he is thinking clearly. The doctor also will test the patient’s reflexes to see if she or he may have had any physical damage. This helps the doctor find out which tests are needed. The doctor may order one or more of the following tests: • Imaging tests that give a picture of the brain. These include CT (computed tomography) scanning, sometimes called CAT scans and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scanning. CT scans are useful for finding out if a stroke is caused by a blockage or by bleeding in the brain. • Electrical tests, such as EEG (electroencephalogram) and an evoked response test to record the electrical impulses and sensory processes of the brain. • Blood flow tests, such as Doppler ultrasound tests, to show any changes in the blood flow to the brain.
