Reviewed By Lin Wisman

“Stroke” by Louis R Caplan, MD is a publication of the American Academy of Neurology. It is explains to a lay person what has happened when a stroke occurs, and what can be done to have the best outcome. One stated intent is to narrow the info gap between doctors and patients.

Stroke is a huge category. This book explains what the different types of strokes are, how they are discovered and treated.

He explains the root causes of stroke and the physical conditions which can lead to a stroke. He emphasizes the need for prevention. Prevention is obviously a better option than recovery. He lists various conditions which can lead to stroke. Stroke Family may find this list helpful when reconstructing stroke cause.

The section on how the brain works was particularly informative. Stroke family will appreciate his explanation of what physically occurred.

Treatment of different types of strokes is covered. This is quite helpful to hear how and why the various types of strokes are treated.

The book covers problems immediately after a stroke as well as those that stay with the survivor. He talks about the role of rehabilitation, and how rehabilitation works. This helps to see how the role of caregiver fits into the total situation.

Some arenas talked about are TIAs, use of tPA, migraines, speech problems, blood thinners and how they work, differences between CT scans, MRI’s, MRA’, and CTA’s, emotional liability. There is also a discussion on caregiver roles.

Being a stroke survivor I found the book encouraging. The treatment I received from the medical establishment was as Dr Caplan suggested it should happen. Since I had a brainstem stroke I was particularly interested in what he had to say about the brainstem. I found his comments on brainstem stroke to be on the mark from my own experience. It also furthered my knowledge of brainstem stroke.

The last appendix is on insurance. He explains how it works. This appendix by itself may be worth the price of the book.

Dr Caplan does a good job of covering a very large topic. Many different subjects and situations are discussed. He broadens stroke to include more than the usual stereotypes.

This book is highly recommended for those who have recently had someone in their family experience a stroke. It provides explanations which your doctor may not have given. It also gives information which may lead to better questions.

For those who are further out from a stroke, it may fill in some gaps in education. It is also a great primer if you deal with others who have had strokes. For example, if you frequent the board of The Stroke Network, this book will help to understand where various members are coming from. It is also recommended for health professionals.

Order the Book.