Stroke

A distinction is drawn between two types of stroke: an ischemic stroke, in which the blood vessels are blocked and leads to a lack of oxygen, and a haemorrhagic stroke, in which bleeding occurs in the brain. The symptoms vary depending on the part of the brain where the stroke occurs. They may include lost or blurred vision, trouble speaking or difficulty understanding speech, numbness or weakness, dizziness, or trouble walking. Acute stroke treatment involves reopening the blocked blood vessel or stopping the bleeding. The Swiss Atlas of Healthcare comprises two aspects: (1.) the frequency of inpatient treatment of patients suffering a stroke (both ischemic and haemorrhagic strokes); (2.) the frequency of inpatient treatment in stroke units of patients suffering from a stroke (both ischemic and haemorrhagic strokes). An acute stroke unit is a specialised ward that delivers optimal and interdisciplinary care for stroke patients.