Excessive Drooling and Facial Weakness as Early Signs of Stroke

Excessive drooling and facial drooping are among the most common early warning signs of a stroke. These symptoms often occur due to impaired muscle control on one side of the face. In addition to these signs, individuals may experience dizziness, blurred or double vision, weakness or numbness in one side of the body, difficulty walking, and balance issues.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

These symptoms should never be ignored, as they can indicate a disruption in blood flow to the brain. If not treated promptly, the condition can worsen rapidly, leading to more severe complications such as speech impairment, paralysis on one side of the body, difficulty swallowing, and coughing while drinking fluids. In the most serious cases, stroke can lead to coma, respiratory or cardiac failure, and even death.

Diagnostic and Treatment Options

When stroke symptoms are suspected, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Hospitals typically perform diagnostic tests such as brain CT scans or MRI imaging to confirm the presence of a blood clot. Once diagnosed, treatment may include intravenous thrombolytic drugs like rtPA (recombinant tissue plasminogen activator) or urokinase to dissolve the clot. Additional medications may include antiplatelet agents such as aspirin, clopidogrel, or indomethacin to prevent further clot formation.

Cholesterol-lowering statins like atorvastatin or rosuvastatin may also be prescribed to reduce the risk of future cardiovascular events. To improve blood circulation, drugs such as thrombaxone or ginkgo biloba extracts are often used. Neuroprotective agents like edaravone or citicoline may help reduce brain damage by clearing harmful free radicals.

Advanced Interventions for Severe Cases

In cases where significant narrowing of the arteries inside or outside the skull is detected, emergency interventions such as mechanical thrombectomy or endovascular stent placement may be necessary. These procedures help restore blood flow quickly and improve outcomes.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Once the acute phase has passed and the patient's condition stabilizes, rehabilitation becomes a key part of recovery. Treatments may include acupuncture, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and structured exercise programs. These interventions aim to restore function, improve mobility, and minimize long-term disability.