The decision to perform surgery will depend on the person's neurological status, the type of plaque clogging the artery, and whether the plaque has a break in it, known as a rupture. Supportive therapy may also be needed with some strokes. This may include an artificial breathing machine, or ventilator , and an artificial feeding tube if the person cannot swallow. Rehabilitation services can help to improve a person's function after a stroke. Physical therapy and other therapy, such as speech therapy or occupational therapy , may be used to maximize recovery.
Side effects depend on the treatments used.
For instance, aspirin may cause allergic reactions , stomach upset, or bleeding. Clot-busting medications can cause excessive bleeding. A ventilator may sometimes cause damage to the lungs or an infection. A carotid artery endarterectomy can cause bleeding, infections, and allergic reactions to the anesthesia . On rare occasions, carotid endarterectomy can cause a stroke or heart attack to occur.