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Stroke (cont.)

The initial treatment for stroke is supportive.

You usually will be given fluids through an IV because if you're having a stroke, you may often be dehydrated.
Oxygen may be given to be sure that your brain is getting the maximal amount.
If you have any difficulty breathing, this will be assessed and treated.
Unlike people with chest pain, people having a stroke are not given an aspirin immediately.
You are requested not to eat or drink until your ability to swallow is assessed.
Blood pressure control: It is important not to lower the blood pressure too much so that the brain will get enough blood. Many different medications can be used to lower the blood pressure including pills, nitroglycerin paste, or IV injections. If the blood pressure is very high, you would be placed on a continuous IV flow of medication.
- Many people with stroke have very high blood pressure when they come to the emergency department. This may be due to an underlying problem or in response to the stroke. The doctor will assess the blood pressure and the type of stroke and decide if the blood pressure should be lowered.
If you have acute stroke, you will be admitted to the hospital for monitoring and further testing to figure out the cause of the stroke and ways to prevent a future stroke. Once you have had a stroke, you are at greater risk than others of having an additional stroke.