How to Test for an Undetected Stroke

Many things have been written about strokes. The media has covered the warnings signs consistently. When a stroke happens many people can pinpoint them immediately. Strokes, however, can occur unnoticed in many people. For these victims, it may be a matter of time before a more serious stroke occurs. Here’s how to test for undetected stroke.

Instructions

• 1

  Know the risk factors. When the likelihood of a stroke is known, it may be easier to seek tests and work toward prevention. African-Americans and women over 45 are increasingly becoming a larger segment of the population that experiences stroke. People in these groups should seek the traditional tests for stroke victims during regular checkups.

• 2

  Get an ultrasound of the blood vessels. Traditional tests, like angiograms, can’t track enlarged blood vessels the way that an ultrasound can. This test will be able to detect the slightest irregularity in the blood vessels that may have been damaged during a stroke.

• 3

  Observe lighter, subtler versions of stroke symptoms. The ability to smile, complete a simple sentence or raise arms to the same level are obvious signs of a stroke when they happen for prolonged periods of time. Stroke victims and their caregivers should notice if this occurs even momentarily. It may be a sign that some has gone wrong. Being mindful of the slightest variance in the patient’s health is a good start in heading off potential problems. The patient or caregiver should go so far as to keep a journal of any changes that occur with the patient so they can be reviewed with a healthcare professional.

• 4

  See a doctor on a regular basis. Nothing can beat the one on one communication that occurs between a doctor and a patient. Potential stroke victims in high-risk groups should discuss the possibility of strokes with a physician, as well as any symptoms, however slight. The doctor will be able to provide an expert opinion of testing for strokes. A patient who continues to experience stroke like symptoms with no diagnosis of stroke should continue to visit the doctor. Before looking for a second opinion, discuss the possibility of going over previous tests and look for items that may not have been glaring before. Often, doctors will appreciate the patient’s willingness to work with her on the issue.

• 5

  Take a partial stroke test. This has been discussed extensively throughout the scientific community. It tests for undetected failures of the heart and may be successful in eliminating the threat of a more significant stroke. It has not been fully embraced in the health community and is awaiting additional testing for its use.