Stroke Diagnosis

There are several diagnostic tests used to diagnose a stroke, including:

• Physical and neurological exams
• Imaging tests such as CT scan, MRI, and carotid ultrasound
• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
• Blood tests

An ECG (electrocardiogram) cannot detect a stroke directly. However, it can be used to help identify conditions that may increase the risk of stroke, such as atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat). Atrial fibrillation can lead to blood clots that can cause a stroke.

Both CT scan and MRI are commonly used imaging tests for diagnosing stroke, but they have different strengths and limitations.CT scan is useful for identifying bleeding in the brain in cases of hemorrhagic stroke, while MRI is more sensitive and provides more detailed images of the brain for detecting early ischemic strokes.

A neuro check for stroke involves a series of assessments to evaluate a patient's neurological function, including checking their level of consciousness, pupillary response, motor strength, sensation, and reflexes.