The diagnosis of atherosclerosis is based on symptoms and a clinical examination. An atherosclerotic plaque, or a buildup of fat and other substances, can be seen on a carotid Doppler test. This test provides an image of the inside walls of the main arteries, called the carotid arteries, which take blood to the brain. An echocardiogram , which is a test using ultrasound waves to look at the heart, can also pick up atherosclerotic plaques. Cranial MRIs and cranial CT scans may be ordered to show the type, size, and location of the stroke.
Strokes can cause death or permanent disability.
Though many people recover some function in the first several months after a stroke, others show no improvement. Some people have several small strokes over time and slowly get worse with each one. Strokes are not contagious and pose no risk to others. Most people with strokes are treated right away with only aspirin if they do not have bleeding into the brain. This only serves to help prevent further strokes.