Suggested blood tests for stroke patients

Strokes remain one of the leading causes of long-term disability and death worldwide. Around 1.8 million people in India suffer from a stroke every year and it is only early treatment that can reduce morbidity and mortality. Although quick medical treatment can help reverse the devastating effects of a stroke, it’s important to conduct the right blood tests to fully assess the patient's condition. Here, we outline some of the essential blood tests recommended for stroke patients at Ampath Labs in India.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A complete blood count test is a standard blood test used to evaluate various components of the blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. In stroke patients, the CBC test helps to detect any abnormalities in the blood, such as low hemoglobin levels or high white blood cell count, which can be an indicator of an underlying infection.

Lipid Profile
A lipid profile is a blood test that measures the quantity of fats, such as cholesterol and triglycerides, in the blood. High cholesterol levels are a risk factor for stroke as they can cause the build-up of plaque in the blood vessels. A lipid profile is a useful tool in assessing the risk of stroke in patients.

Blood Glucose
A blood glucose test measures the level of sugar (glucose) in the blood. High blood sugar levels can lead to an increased risk of stroke, and patients with diabetes are at a higher risk of having a stroke. For these patients, a blood glucose test becomes essential in controlling blood sugar levels and improving their chances of stroke recovery.

Coagulation Tests
Coagulation tests are used to evaluate how well blood clots in the body. Blood clots can cause a stroke by blocking blood vessels in the brain. In stroke patients, a coagulation test can help detect abnormal clotting, which can increase the risk of another stroke.

Renal Function Test
A renal function test measures the efficiency of the kidneys in filtering toxins from the blood. Kidneys that are not functioning correctly can lead to high blood pressure, which is a common risk factor for stroke. Testing for renal function is critical in stroke patients as they are often put on medication that can affect the kidneys.

Conclusion:
Strokes are a significant health risk and can have devastating effects on people’s lives. However, early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the chances of recovery. At Ampath Labs in India, we recommend conducting a CBC, lipid profile, blood glucose, coagulation tests, and renal function test to assess the patient's condition fully. By conducting these blood tests, our professionals will have vital data to speed up the patient's road to recovery and reduce the risk of future strokes. So, if you have suffered or are at risk of having a stroke, make sure to consult with your doctor and schedule an appointment at Ampath Labs today.