A stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. It occurs when the blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted, either due to a blockage (ischemic stroke) or a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). The damage caused by a stroke can be severe, leading to disability or even death if not treated quickly. In Lahore, Dr. Masood Ahmed, a renowned Interventional Cardiologist and Endovascular Specialist, provides  acute stroke treatment with 4.5 hours options that can significantly improve outcomes for patients.

Acute Stroke Treatment in Lahore by Dr. Masood Ahmed

Symptoms of an acute stroke can appear suddenly and may include:

• BEFAST stands for:

  • B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance or coordination.

  • E – Eyes: (Mentioned in the paragraph below the acronym) Vision changes like double vision or loss of vision.

  • F – Face: Facial drooping or asymmetry when smiling.

  • A – Arms: Arm weakness or inability to raise both arms evenly.

  • S – Speech: Slurred, strange, or difficult speech.

  • T – Time: Act fast—call emergency services immediately (every minute counts).

• Sudden confusion or trouble with mental clarity
• Severe headache with no known cause
• Difficulty seeing in one or both eyes
• Trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance

These symptoms often require immediate medical intervention. A stroke is considered a medical emergency, and rapid treatment with in time frame 6 to  24 hours is crucial in minimizing brain damage and improving the chances of recovery.

Types of Stroke

1. Ischemic Stroke: This is the most common type of stroke, caused by a blockage in an artery that supplies blood to the brain. It accounts for about 85% of all strokes. The blockage can be due to a clot that forms either within an artery (thrombosis) or from an embolus (a clot or debris that travels from another part of the body).
2. Hemorrhagic Stroke: A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing bleeding within or around the brain. This can lead to increased pressure in the brain and result in severe damage. Hemorrhagic strokes can be caused by conditions such as high blood pressure, aneurysms, or arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).
3. Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Also known as a “mini-stroke,” a TIA is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain. Although the symptoms are short-lived (usually lasting less than 24 hours), it is a warning sign that a full-blown stroke may occur in the future.

Acute Stroke Treatment by Dr. Masood Ahmed

Dr. Masood Ahmed, an experienced interventional cardiologist and endovascular specialist, is dedicated to providing the most advanced stroke treatments available. With over 40 years of expertise in performing minimally invasive procedures, Dr. Masood uses state-of-the-art technology to provide effective, life-saving treatments for stroke patients in Lahore.

Endovascular Thrombectomy for Ischemic Stroke

In cases of ischemic stroke, one of the most effective treatments is endovascular thrombectomy, a procedure that involves physically removing the clot from the brain’s blood vessels. This is typically done within six to 24 hours after the stroke occurs, as the chances of restoring blood flow to the brain are highest within this timeframe.

Dr. Masood Ahmed performs endovascular thrombectomy using a catheter inserted through a small incision in the groin. The catheter is navigated through the blood vessels to the site of the clot in the brain. Once the clot is located, it is either sucked out or removed with a mechanical device, restoring blood flow to the affected area of the brain.

This procedure has been shown to significantly improve recovery outcomes for patients with acute ischemic strokes, primarily if performed quickly. The benefits of endovascular thrombectomy include:

• Faster recovery compared to traditional treatments
• Lower risk of long-term disability
• Minimally invasive, reducing the need for large incisions and lengthy recovery times

 Intravenous Thrombolysis (IV tPA)

For patients who arrive within a few hours of the onset of an ischemic stroke, intravenous thrombolysis (IV tPA) may be an appropriate treatment. This involves administering tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), a clot-busting drug, intravenously. The drug works by dissolving the clot and restoring blood flow to the brain. Dr. Masood Ahmed carefully evaluates the patient’s condition to determine if this treatment is suitable.

IV tPA must be administered within three to four and a half hours of the onset of symptoms to be effective. Given the critical time window, early recognition and immediate treatment are crucial in preventing permanent brain damage.

Management of Hemorrhagic Stroke

Hemorrhagic strokes require a different approach, as the treatment focuses on stopping the bleeding and reducing the pressure on the brain. Dr. Masood Ahmed is skilled in both medical and interventional techniques to manage hemorrhagic strokes effectively.

• Surgical Intervention: In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the blood clot or repair the damaged blood vessels. Dr. Masood works closely with neurosurgeons to ensure that the most appropriate surgical options are available.
• Endovascular Procedures: In certain situations, Dr. Masood uses advanced endovascular techniques to treat aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), which are often the cause of hemorrhagic strokes. Through a catheter, he can deploy coils or stents to seal off the damaged blood vessels and prevent further bleeding.

Comprehensive Stroke Care and Rehabilitation

The treatment of acute stroke doesn’t end with emergency intervention. Recovery from a stroke often involves a combination of medical care and rehabilitation. Dr. Masood Ahmed works closely with a team of neurologists, physiotherapists, and rehabilitation specialists to provide patients with a tailored recovery plan. This may include:

• Physical Therapy: To help patients regain strength and mobility.
• Speech Therapy: For patients who experience difficulties with speaking, swallowing, or understanding language.
• Occupational Therapy: To assist patients in regaining the ability to perform daily tasks.

The rehabilitation process is crucial in helping patients regain independence and improve their quality of life after a stroke.

Why Choose Dr. Masood Ahmed for Acute Stroke Treatment in Lahore?

Dr. Masood Ahmed is a highly skilled Interventional Cardiologist and Endovascular Specialist with a wealth of experience in treating patients with acute strokes. His expertise in performing minimally invasive procedures, such as endovascular thrombectomy and IV tPA administration, makes him one of the most sought-after specialists for stroke treatment in Lahore.

Dr. Masood’s commitment to patient-centred care ensures that each stroke patient receives a personalised treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. From the initial evaluation to post-treatment rehabilitation, Dr. Masood and his team provide compassionate care at every step of the recovery process.

Stroke Prevention and Risk Management

While acute stroke treatment is essential, prevention is equally important. Dr. Masood Ahmed works with patients to manage stroke risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. He provides counselling on lifestyle changes, such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation, to help reduce the risk of stroke.

For those at higher risk, regular check-ups and screenings for cardiovascular health can help identify issues before they lead to a stroke.

Acute stroke is a medical emergency that demands prompt and effective treatment. Dr. Masood Ahmed, with his advanced expertise in interventional cardiology and endovascular procedures, offers state-of-the-art stroke treatments in Lahore. Whether through endovascular thrombectomy, intravenous thrombolysis, or specialised care for hemorrhagic strokes, Dr. Masood’s approach focuses on providing the best possible outcomes for his patients.

If you or a loved one is experiencing stroke symptoms, it is critical to seek immediate medical help. Early intervention can significantly improve the chances of recovery and reduce long-term disability. For expert stroke care in Lahore, Dr. Masood Ahmed is a trusted choice.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact Dr. Masood Ahmed at Saleem Memorial Hospital, located on Canal Road, Lahore Don’t wait—early treatment is key to recovery!