Non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke, refers to a type of stroke caused by a blockage in a blood vessel within the brain, typically due to atherosclerosis or small vessel disease. Unlike cardioembolic ischemic strokes, which are caused by blood clots originating from the heart, noncardioembolic strokes occur when a blood clot forms elsewhere in the body and travels to the brain, or when a blood vessel within the brain becomes narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow to brain tissue.
Risk factors for noncardioembolic stroke include high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and family history of stroke. Symptoms of a noncardioembolic stroke may include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, vision problems, severe headache, and loss of balance or coordination.
Treatment for noncardioembolic stroke often involves the administration of clot-busting medications such as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) or mechanical thrombectomy to remove the clot and restore blood flow to the affected area of the brain. Additionally, lifestyle changes and medications to manage underlying risk factors may be recommended to prevent future strokes. Rehabilitation therapy may also be necessary to help regain lost function and improve recovery outcomes. Early recognition and prompt treatment of noncardioembolic strokes are essential for minimizing brain damage and optimizing recovery.