What tests should be done for cerebral infarction re examination

The follow-up examination for cerebral infarction mainly requires head magnetic resonance imaging or CT, cerebrovascular examination, blood test, cardiac examination, and functional evaluation. Cerebral infarction usually refers to cerebral infarction. Regular follow-up can help evaluate the recovery of the condition and prevent recurrence.

1. Head magnetic resonance imaging or CT:

Head magnetic resonance imaging or CT is the core item for re examination, which can clearly display changes in the cerebral infarction. Magnetic resonance imaging is more sensitive to early ischemia and small lesions, and can determine whether the infarct is stable, whether there are new lesions, or whether it has transformed into bleeding. CT scan can quickly rule out cerebral hemorrhage and is suitable for patients with metal implants or other conditions that cannot undergo magnetic resonance imaging. By comparing the images before and after, doctors can evaluate the degree of repair of brain tissue damage and the recovery of blood flow perfusion.

2. Cerebrovascular examination:

Cerebrovascular examination includes carotid ultrasound, transcranial Doppler, or magnetic resonance angiography, with the aim of evaluating the presence of stenosis, plaques, or occlusion in large blood vessels inside and outside the skull. These tests can determine whether the vascular lesions that cause cerebral infarction have progressed, such as whether carotid plaques have increased or become unstable. If vascular stenosis worsens, doctors may adjust the regimen of antiplatelet or lipid-lowering drugs and consider interventional treatment if necessary.

3. Blood test:

Blood test mainly focuses on indicators such as blood lipids, blood glucose, homocysteine, and coagulation function. Abnormal blood lipids and high blood sugar are important risk factors for cerebral infarction. Follow up can help understand the control effects of lipid-lowering and hypoglycemic drugs. Coagulation function tests help evaluate the safety of antiplatelet drugs such as aspirin enteric coated tablets, clopidogrel tablets, or anticoagulant drugs such as warfarin sodium tablets, and avoid the risk of bleeding or thrombosis. In addition, blood routine and liver and kidney function tests can also help monitor drug side effects.

4. Cardiac examination:

Cardiac examination includes electrocardiogram and echocardiogram, used to investigate the possibility of cardioembolic embolism. A significant portion of cerebral infarction is caused by arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation, which can be detected by electrocardiography. Echocardiography can observe the structure of the heart and detect potential sources of embolism such as valve vegetations, patent foramen ovale, or left atrial thrombus. If paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is suspected, doctors may recommend 24-hour dynamic electrocardiogram monitoring.

5. Functional assessment:

Functional assessment includes neurological physical examination, daily living ability scale, and cognitive function screening. Doctors will check muscle strength, sensation, coordination, and language function to determine the degree of neurological recovery. Daily living ability scales such as Barthel index can quantify patients' self-care ability, while cognitive screening such as simple mental state examination can detect early signs of vascular dementia. These evaluation results directly guide the adjustment of rehabilitation training programs, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy. The frequency and items of cerebral infarction re examination should be determined by the doctor according to individual conditions. It is generally recommended to have re examinations at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after discharge. Pay attention to controlling blood pressure, blood sugar, and blood lipids in daily life, adhere to a low salt and low-fat diet, quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption, engage in aerobic exercise such as walking appropriately, and pay attention to new symptoms such as limb weakness, unclear speech, or dizziness. Seek medical attention promptly if any abnormalities occur.