Emergency Management of Acute Ischaemic Stroke

Abstract

Stroke is a medical emergency with ischaemic stroke being the commonest type worldwide. Hypertension has been identified as the leading modifiable risk factor globally. The management of acute ischemic stroke is fast changing due to the advancement in technology and the introduction of intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activa-tor. There is a limited time window for early intervention to salvage the ailing neurons. The first 24 hours of presentation is therefore crucial in management. Early recognition of stroke symptoms with rapid intervention can lead to a favourable outcome. Specialized care during the acute phase in the intensive care or stroke unit can improve the overall prognosis.