what is the best treatment for stroke

The best treatment for stroke depends on the type of stroke and how quickly treatment is administered. The two main types of stroke are ischemic and hemorrhagic. Ischemic strokes can often be treated using injections of a medicine called alteplase, which dissolves blood clots and restores blood flow to the brain. This use of "clot-busting" medicine is known as thrombolysis. If given intravenously within 4.5 hours from when symptoms first started, therapy with drugs that can break up a clot can be effective. Emergency endovascular procedures have also been shown to significantly improve outcomes and reduce long-term disability after ischemic stroke. Hemorrhagic strokes require different treatment, such as reducing blood pressure to reduce the amount of bleeding and keep it from getting worse. Surgery is sometimes necessary to relieve pressure on the brain from accumulated blood. Occupational therapy and medicine may help with recovery from stroke. Overall, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of stroke right away and call 9-1-1 to get to the hospital as quickly as possible for the best chance of recovery.