There are several treatment options for a person with cerebral ischemia. The goal of treatment is to resolve the restriction in the arteries and restore proper blood flow, thus reducing the risk of a stroke.
Whenever possible, a neurosurgeon will recommend conservative treatment, which would address the narrowed arteries with medicine and lifestyle changes. Medications to manage high blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and/or thin the blood may be prescribed to treat cerebral ischemia, as well as having the individual quit smoking, participate in an exercise routine, change poor eating habits, and manage stress.
A transient ischemic attack (TIA), which produces similar symptoms as a stroke, is temporary but serves as a warning since one in three people with a TIA will go on to suffer a stroke.
Doctors use several medications to manage the factors that lead to cerebral ischemia and reduce the chances a person will suffer a stroke after a TIA. Medications to address blood clotting, such as the following, are often prescribed:
Reviewed by: Dr. Philip E. Stieg
Last reviewed/updated: October 2020