Stroke Specialist
What is a Stroke Specialist?
A stroke specialist is a board-certified vascular neurologist trained in diagnosing and treating patients who have suffered strokes or who are at high risk of suffering a stroke.
These doctors have completed a four-year neurology residency, along with subspeciality fellowships and additional training in brain imaging and stroke management. Rapid assessment of stroke patients by one of our highly trained specialists is critical for the best chance at preventing a life-threatening incident and for making a full recovery.
They also help patients reduce risk factors, such as smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
When to see a Stroke Specialist
Patients may need to see a stroke specialist during or after a stroke, or if they are considered at risk of suffering a stroke. Since strokes have a high chance of reoccurrence, it’s important to see a highly trained specialist. Also, because initial care might be provided in a hospital setting, patients should seek out a thorough follow-up to make sure that they continue the right medications and make optimal lifestyle modifications.
What to expect during a visit to a Stroke Specialist
Your stroke specialist will complete a thorough review of your medical history and perform a physical exam that includes screenings of blood pressure, vital signs, brain, and neurological function. Lab and imaging tests may be ordered. Blood tests will screen for clots, infections, and blood sugar levels. A CT scan or MRI might be taken to produce a detailed image of the brain. Other diagnostic imaging or testing that might be used includes a carotid ultrasound, a cerebral angiogram, or an echocardiogram to detect if a clot traveled from the heart to the brain. Your stroke specialist will discuss a treatment plan to improve your heath through diet, exercise, medications, and other lifestyle changes.
Treatments by Stroke Specialists
If you suspect you or someone you love is experiencing a stroke, call 911. Strokes are medical emergencies because they interrupt the flow of blood to the brain, which can be fatal or cause brain damage within minutes. Our specialists are trained to provide life-saving care and to ensure that patients make full recoveries after incidents, including an acute ischemic stroke, a cardioembolic stroke, or a transient ischemic attack. This might involve administering IV medication, surgical clipping, or performing another emergency procedure. A clot might be removed with a stent retriever or your doctor may recommend a procedure to open a narrow artery, such as an angioplasty or carotid endarterectomy. Intensive rehabilitation and therapy are likely to follow a stroke.
In addition to medications and lifestyle changes, your stroke specialist may recommend surgery or a minimally invasive procedure to repair blood vessels. Our specialists continue to challenge themselves to use the most effective and innovative treatment options available to stroke patients.
What you can expect at UTHealth Neurosciences
UTHealth Neurosciences brings together a multidisciplinary team of board-certified, fellowship-trained neurosurgeons, neurologists, researchers, and pain management specialists who works to help provide relief for even the most complex problems. Your team will share insights, leading to better treatment decisions and outcomes.
We first investigate nonsurgical treatment options, including medical management, pain management, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and watchful waiting. When surgery is needed, our neurosurgeons routinely employ innovative minimally invasive techniques. Throughout the treatment process, we will work closely with the doctor who referred you to ensure a smooth transition back to your regular care. While you are with us, you will receive expert care, excellent communication, and genuine compassion.
Contact Us
At UTHealth Neurosciences, we offer patients access to specialized neurological care at clinics across the greater Houston area. To ask us a question, schedule an appointment, or learn more about us, please call (713) 486-8000, or click below to send us a message. In the event of an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Room.