DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE ISCHEMIC STROKE IN PAKISTAN.

Abstract

Stroke is the second largest leading cause of death worldwide. Though the stroke incidence is high in the West but probably it is rising in Asia. The burden of stroke is immense and a report stated that by 2020, Pakistan will be 4^th most populous country in terms of diabetic patients as they are more prone to stroke. The stroke affects almost all the age groups and genders from neonates to elder people. Its risk increases with the increase of age. A stroke causes major social and economic burden on the country. Acute stroke and coronary syndrome have some similarities that helps in understanding how restoration of normal blood flow and arterial occlusion can decrease mortality rate and prevent disability. Stroke is a syndrome and has two types, ischemic (85% of cases) and hemorrhagic (15% of cases). The severity of strokes defines that either they are minor or transient ischemic in nature. Though the data on this topic regarding the prevailing issue in Pakistan is scarce, we have tried in this narrative review to collect particulars based upon clinical trials, diagnosis and management,. The consequences of ischemic stroke are myriad, ranging from physical disability like paralysis to death, psychological, social and economic burden.