The aim of the diagnostic process is to discover:
- where in the brain the stroke occurred;
- how serious the stroke is;
- what caused the stroke.
The following tests should be undertaken when dealing with a patient who has just had a stroke:
- Blood pressure. The patient's blood pressure will be taken to ascertain whether it needs to be stabilised with medication;
- Heart rate. An electrocardiogram (ECG) will be carried out to check for any irregular heart rhythm;
- Brain scans. Either a CT scan or an MRI scan will be taken within 24 hours of the stroke occurring. This will indicate both
the site of the stroke and the extent of the damage;
- Blood tests. Bloods will be taken to check for cholestrol levels, blood sugar and clotting;
- Over a third of people who have had a stroke experience problems with swallowing. The Royal College of Physicians guidance on stroke
states that all stroke patients should, on admission, be given the swallow test which assesses the person's ability to swallow water;
- Ultrasound may be used to measure the flow of blood in the neck;
- An echocardiogram may be used to check for any problems with the heart;
- A chest x-ray may be taken in order to identify any obvious causes of the stroke.
