In brief: A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted — either by a clot (ischemic) or bleeding (hemorrhagic). It is a medical emergency: recognise the warning signs with F.A.S.T. (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call emergency) and seek care immediately, because treatment works best within the first hours. Many strokes are preventable by controlling blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, not smoking, and treating carotid artery narrowing. Prof. Dr. Yusuf Kalko provides this treatment in Turkey (Istanbul) and welcomes international and Gulf patients.
What Is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is suddenly cut off, so brain cells are deprived of oxygen and begin to die. Because every minute counts, a stroke must be treated as an emergency. Rapid treatment can limit brain damage and improve recovery.
Types of Stroke
- Ischemic stroke: the most common type, caused by a clot or plaque blocking a brain artery (often from carotid artery disease or the heart).
- Hemorrhagic stroke: caused by bleeding when a brain vessel ruptures, often related to high blood pressure.
- Transient ischemic attack (TIA, “mini-stroke”): symptoms last briefly and resolve, but it is an important warning of a future stroke and must not be ignored.
Symptoms — The FAST Rule
Stroke symptoms are usually sudden and one-sided. Remember FAST:
- F — Face: drooping or numbness on one side of the face.
- A — Arm: sudden weakness or numbness in an arm or leg.
- S — Speech: slurred speech, difficulty speaking or understanding.
- T — Time: if any sign appears, call emergency services immediately — even if it passes.
Causes and Risk Factors
- High blood pressure (the leading risk factor)
- Carotid artery narrowing and atherosclerosis
- Heart rhythm disorders (atrial fibrillation)
- Diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking
- Older age and family history
Diagnosis
After a rapid clinical assessment, brain imaging (CT or MRI) determines the type of stroke. The neck and brain vessels are evaluated — for example with carotid Doppler ultrasound — and heart rhythm and blood tests help identify the cause so that further strokes can be prevented.
Emergency Treatment
Ischemic stroke may be treated with clot-dissolving medication or clot-removal procedures, but these are time-critical — effectiveness depends on the first hours. This is why calling emergency services at the first sign is so important; do not wait for symptoms to pass.
Prevention and the Role of Vascular Surgery
Most strokes are preventable. Controlling blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, stopping smoking, and managing heart rhythm greatly reduce risk. When the carotid artery is significantly narrowed, restoring flow (carotid endarterectomy or stenting) can prevent a stroke. A painless carotid Doppler helps identify who is at risk.
In Istanbul
Prof. Dr. Yusuf Kalko evaluates stroke risk — including carotid artery assessment — at his clinic in Istanbul (Beylikdüzü) and plans prevention tailored to you. Contact us for an appointment. If there are active stroke signs, call emergency services first.
Related Pages
Why Choose Turkey (Istanbul) for Your Treatment?
- Over 30 years of experience in cardiovascular and vascular surgery.
- Advanced minimally invasive and hybrid techniques.
- English- and Arabic-speaking support for international and Gulf patients.
- Competitive costs and easy access to Istanbul from the Gulf, Europe and beyond.
- Pre-travel remote assessment, then treatment and appointment planning.
How to Start from Abroad (Remote Consultation)
You can send your medical reports and scan images via WhatsApp for an initial assessment before traveling. We then plan your treatment and appointment in Istanbul, Turkey, and support international patients at every step.
📋 This page is part of our Vascular Diseases guide. See the overview for other vascular conditions, symptoms and treatments in Turkey (Istanbul).
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I see stroke signs?
Call emergency services immediately, even if the symptoms seem to pass. Note the time symptoms started, keep the person calm and do not give food or drink.
Is a TIA (mini-stroke) dangerous?
Yes. Although symptoms resolve, a TIA is a strong warning that a major stroke may follow. The cause should be found and treated promptly.
Can strokes be prevented?
Largely yes — by controlling blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, not smoking, managing heart rhythm, and treating significant carotid narrowing.
How is carotid narrowing detected?
With a painless carotid Doppler ultrasound, recommended for people with risk factors or warning symptoms.
Do you treat international patients?
Yes. We welcome international and Gulf patients in Turkey (Istanbul), with English- and Arabic-speaking support throughout assessment and treatment.
How can I book an appointment from abroad?
Via WhatsApp: send your inquiry and medical reports, and we will arrange your appointment and explain the steps before and after arriving in Istanbul.
How much does treatment cost?
Cost depends on your condition and the treatment plan. For an estimate, contact us via WhatsApp with your medical reports attached.
Can I have a consultation before traveling?
Yes. An initial remote assessment can be made based on your reports and scans before you come to Turkey.