Diagnostic Testing
Upon arriving to the emergency room, a physical examination is done to confirm which parts of the body have stopped functioning normally. A CT scan is often performed to determine the cause of the suspected stroke and to look for bleeding and masses within the brain. An MRI, which gives much more detailed information than a CT scan, is performed when possible. A carotid doppler ultrasound is a non-invasive test used to look for narrowing and decreased blood flow in the carotid arteries which supply the brain. Other diagnostic tests include a CT scan with angiography or a conventional angiography which provide images of the blood vessels. Blood tests to check kidney and liver functions, electrolyte imbalances and clotting function are performed along with an electrocardiogram.
Photo: Getty Images
Add a CommentComments
There are no comments yet. Be the first one and get the conversation started!