Stroke

Types of Stroke

There are two main types: ischemic and hemorrhagic. Each has its own development features and treatment approaches.

Ischemic Stroke

This type develops as a result of a blockage in a blood vessel supplying the brain. It is the most common form, accounting for up to 80% of all cases. The blockage may be caused by a blood clot or an atherosclerotic plaque.

Hemorrhagic Stroke

This form is caused by a rupture of a blood vessel, leading to bleeding into brain tissue or surrounding areas. It tends to have more severe consequences and requires intensive treatment.

Causes and Risk Factors

Main causes include:

• Arterial hypertension

• Atherosclerosis

• Heart disease

• Diabetes

• Smoking

• Overweight

• Sedentary lifestyle

Other risk factors: age, heredity, high cholesterol, frequent stress, and excessive alcohol consumption.

Symptoms and Warning Signs

A stroke can be recognized by the following symptoms:

• Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body

• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech

• Sudden loss of vision or blurred vision in one eye

• Sudden severe headache without a known cause

• Dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination problems

The sooner a patient receives medical attention, the better the chances of a favorable outcome.

First Aid

If a stroke is suspected:

• Call emergency services immediately

• Lay the person down with their head slightly elevated

• Ensure fresh air access

• Do not give food, water, or medicine before the doctors arrive

Timely assistance is critical for saving a life and minimizing damage.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins with a symptom assessment and a neurological examination. To confirm the diagnosis, the following methods are used:

• CT scan (Computed Tomography)

• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

• Ultrasound of blood vessels

• Laboratory tests

• ECG (Electrocardiogram)

Accurate diagnosis helps determine the stroke type and choose the best treatment strategy.

Treatment

Stroke treatment in Russia involves modern methods focused on restoring blood flow, protecting nerve cells, and preventing recurrence.

Basic and Personalized Therapy

Basic treatment includes maintaining vital functions, controlling blood pressure, glucose levels, and respiration. Personalized therapy is selected individually based on the patient's condition.

How Acute Stroke Is Treated

Treatment options may include:

• Thrombolytic therapy (within the first hours of ischemic stroke)

• Antihypertensive medications

• Anticoagulants

• Neuroprotective agents

• Surgical removal of hematomas (in hemorrhagic stroke)

• Stent placement in some cases to restore blood flow

The MARUS platform helps international patients receive stroke treatment in top clinics across Russia. We select the best medical center, connect patients with qualified specialists, and support every step of the journey — from emergency hospitalization to full rehabilitation. With MARUS, you can focus on recovery without the burden of organizing treatment logistics.

Stroke Recovery

Stroke recovery is a step-by-step process that requires a comprehensive approach.

Recovery Stages

Recovery may include:

• Medication therapy

• Physical therapy

• Speech therapy and psychological support

• Risk factor management to prevent recurrence

Memory Recovery

Some patients experience memory impairment after an acute stroke. To improve memory, special exercises, cognitive therapy, and brain-stimulating medications are used.

Arm Function Recovery

Movement impairments in the arm require ongoing rehabilitation. This may include physical therapy, massage, exercise machines, and robotic systems to restore motor function.

Prognosis and Quality of Rehabilitation

The outcome depends on the stroke type, extent of brain damage, and how quickly treatment began. Early therapy and professional rehabilitation can significantly improve quality of life and help restore lost functions.

Prevention

To prevent stroke, it is important to:

• Monitor blood pressure

• Quit harmful habits

• Stay physically active

• Follow a balanced diet

• Control blood sugar and cholesterol levels

• Undergo regular medical checkups

Timely preventive measures reduce the risk of acute vascular events and support long-term health.