Do you give oxygen to a acute stroke patient?

In the acute phase of stroke, oxygen therapy may be indicated for patients with hypoxemia, which refers to a reduced level of oxygen in the bloodstream. Hypoxemia can occur in stroke patients for several reasons, such as:

Reduced respiratory drive: Stroke can affect the brain's control over breathing, leading to reduced respiratory effort and subsequent hypoventilation.

Aspiration: Stroke can cause dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, which increases the risk of aspiration of food, fluids, or secretions into the lungs, resulting in pneumonia and hypoxemia.

Pulmonary edema: Stroke can lead to neurogenic pulmonary edema, a condition in which excess fluid accumulates in the lungs, impairing oxygen exchange and causing hypoxemia.

Right heart failure: Stroke can also affect the heart, leading to right heart failure, which can further worsen oxygenation.

Therefore, oxygen therapy may be necessary to maintain adequate oxygen levels and prevent complications related to hypoxemia. Oxygen is typically administered via a nasal cannula, face mask, or other devices, depending on the patient's condition and oxygenation needs.

While oxygen therapy is often indicated in acute stroke patients with hypoxemia, it is important to titrate oxygen administration to maintain target oxygen saturation levels and avoid hyperoxia (excessive oxygen levels). Prolonged or excessive oxygen therapy can lead to potential adverse effects, including absorption atelectasis (collapse of lung units) and increased oxidative stress.

Therefore, oxygen should be administered cautiously, and regular monitoring of oxygen saturation and clinical assessment are essential to guide oxygen therapy and ensure optimal outcomes in acute stroke patients.