In patient management of stroke - A retrospective study

Background * Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability and mortality worldwide. Prompt recognition and treatment can significantly reduce the severity of outcomes. Ischemic and haemorrhagic types being most common. This study reviews the inpatient management of stroke, discusses WHO definitions, pathophysiology, risk factors, symptomatology, and outlines diagnostic and therapeutic approaches used in acute care settings in India. Methods * A retrospective cohort study was conducted with data collected from 154 stroke patients admitted in India between November 2021 and May 2022. The population comprised individuals aged between 20 to 90 years. Results * Age and Gender: Patients ranged from 20 to 90 years; 104 were male and 49 female. Type of Stroke: 126 had ischemic strokes, 25 had haemorrhagic strokes, and 2 had TIAs. Site of Ischemic Stroke: 51 had MCA infarcts, 13 had PCA infarcts, and others had ACA, thalamus, pons, etc. Risk Factors: 123 patients had modifiable risk factors. Common ones included hypertension (47), diabetes & hypertension (48), DM alone (14), recurrent CVA (20), smoking & alcohol (10). Investigations: CT, MRI, MRA, USG Abdomen, 2D Echo, Carotid Doppler. Treatment (Ischemic Stroke): LMWH, aspirin + clopidogrel, statins (atorvastatin), PPIs (pantoprazole), supportive therapy. Treatment (Haemorrhagic Stroke): Mannitol, symptomatic therapy, PPIs, BP control. Conclusion * This study affirms that while stroke management protocols vary across institutions and regions, core investigations and treatments remain universally aligned. Rapid diagnosis, identification of stroke type, and timely initiation of therapy are critical to improving outcomes. Education on modifiable risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, and smoking is essential in stroke prevention.