Foundations
Plain-language fundamentals for understanding stroke, urgent recognition, and early care.
5 modules · 2 tools · 148 courses
Courses
‘Top of the basilar’ strokes — PCA/thalamus/midbrain cluster and imaging localization (Advanced)
Advanced course: occlusion near the basilar tip can affect PCAs, thalami, and midbrain, causing altered consciousness, vision changes, memory problems, and eye movement deficits. Learn how CTA/MRA localize the occlusion and MRI shows infarcts
Acute vs chronic stroke on imaging — ‘encephalomalacia’, ‘gliosis’, and old infarcts (Advanced)
Advanced course: how radiology reports describe old strokes vs acute infarcts, why CT/MRI look different over time, and how to ask what findings are relevant to current symptoms
AICA territory strokes — hearing loss, facial weakness, vertigo, and imaging localization (Advanced)
Advanced course: AICA strokes can cause vertigo with facial weakness and sometimes sudden hearing changes. Learn what it looks like, why it can mimic inner-ear disorders, and how CT/MRI/CTA localize ischemic vs hemorrhagic causes
Anterior cerebral artery (ACA) strokes — leg weakness, motivation changes, and safety planning (Advanced)
Advanced course: ACA territory affects medial frontal areas—often leg weakness and sometimes apathy/behavior changes. Covers ischemic vs hemorrhagic considerations and caregiver strategies
Anterior choroidal artery strokes — the classic triad and why small lesions can be high-impact (Advanced)
Advanced course: anterior choroidal artery supplies deep pathways; small strokes here can cause major deficits. Learn typical symptom patterns and how MRI detects small deep infarcts
Anterior vs posterior MCA division strokes — insula/frontal operculum vs temporal-parietal symptoms (Advanced)
Advanced course: MCA territory is not one thing. Learn how superior/anterior division vs inferior/posterior division strokes differ (Broca vs Wernicke patterns, neglect, sensory, insula symptoms) and how CTA/MRI localize
Anticoagulation timing after ischemic stroke — imaging factors (size/HT) and why repeat CT matters (Advanced)
Advanced course: timing of anticoagulation after ischemic stroke (e.g., for AFib) depends on infarct size, hemorrhagic transformation risk, and follow-up imaging. Learn what CT/MRI findings influence decisions and what questions caregivers can ask
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) testing after stroke — what is tested and why repeats matter (Advanced)
Advanced course: APS is a clotting disorder sometimes evaluated in selected strokes. Learn what antibody tests are used, why timing/repeats matter, and what results can change in the prevention plan
Artery of Percheron stroke — bilateral thalamic pattern, coma/somnolence, and MRI detection (Advanced)
Advanced course: a rare stroke pattern causing bilateral thalamic injury can lead to severe sleepiness, memory issues, and eye movement problems. Learn what it looks like and why MRI is often needed to detect it
Basal ganglia & internal capsule strokes — pure motor weakness and hemorrhage in deep brain areas (Advanced)
Advanced course: deep brain strokes in basal ganglia/internal capsule can cause sudden dense weakness (‘pure motor’). Deep hemorrhages often occur here too. Covers symptom patterns and rehab focus
Basilar artery occlusion — coma risk, posterior circulation signs, and CTA/MRI detection (Advanced)
Advanced course: basilar artery occlusion can deteriorate rapidly and present with dizziness, double vision, severe weakness, or coma. Learn detection workflow (CT, CTA, MRI DWI), and why urgent vessel imaging matters
Brain AVMs — hemorrhage risk, imaging (CTA/MRA/DSA), and what ‘nidus’ means (Advanced)
Advanced course: arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are abnormal artery-to-vein connections that can bleed. Learn key terms (nidus), how CT/MRI detect hemorrhage and associated injury, and how CTA/MRA and catheter angiography map vessels
Brain herniation signs on CT/MRI — what the words mean and why it’s emergent (Advanced)
Advanced course: explains herniation language in radiology reports (uncal, tonsillar, transtentorial), typical triggers (large infarct/hemorrhage), and why rapid escalation is critical
Brain swelling and midline shift — what CT/MRI reports mean and why it’s dangerous (Advanced)
Advanced course: explains edema, mass effect, and midline shift in stroke (large ischemic infarcts or hemorrhage). Learn how CT detects it, why monitoring is intense, and what questions to ask
Brainstem stroke syndromes — lateral medullary (Wallenberg) pattern, detection, and safety (Advanced)
Advanced course: explains why some brainstem strokes cause crossed findings (face vs body), severe swallowing issues, and dizziness. Covers detection with MRI/CTA and urgent safety priorities
Brainstem strokes — swallowing, breathing, eye movement symptoms, and emergency safety (Advanced)
Advanced course: brainstem strokes can affect swallowing, breathing, eye movements, and alertness. Learn symptom patterns, why they can be high-risk, and key safety questions
Broca’s area strokes — expressive aphasia, MCA superior division, and what imaging shows (Advanced)
Advanced course: how left frontal language-network injury causes expressive aphasia, how this differs from dysarthria, and how CT/MRI + vessel imaging help localize ischemic vs hemorrhagic injury
Capsular warning syndrome — repeated mini-attacks, internal capsule pathways, and urgent evaluation (Advanced)
Advanced course: repeated short episodes of weakness (stuttering TIAs) can precede a lacunar/internal capsule infarct. Learn what it looks like, why it’s urgent, and how MRI/CTA help evaluate ischemic vs hemorrhagic causes
Cardioembolic stroke patterns — multi-territory infarcts, hemorrhagic conversion risk, and imaging clues (Advanced)
Advanced course: clots from the heart can cause multi-territory infarcts and sometimes hemorrhagic transformation. Learn imaging distribution clues, how CTA/MRA fit, and what questions to ask about rhythm monitoring and anticoagulation timing
Carotid artery dissection — neck pain, young stroke mechanism, and CTA/MRA detection (Advanced)
Advanced course: carotid dissection is an important cause of stroke (often in younger people). Learn the mechanism, symptom patterns (neck pain, Horner syndrome), and how CTA/MRA detect it
Carotid stenosis and plaque — watershed vs embolic patterns and imaging (ultrasound/CTA/MRA) (Advanced)
Advanced course: carotid narrowing can cause stroke by low flow (watershed) or artery-to-artery emboli. Learn imaging options (carotid ultrasound, CTA, MRA), how patterns differ, and what prevention questions to ask
Caudate nucleus strokes — abulia, slowed thinking, and deep brain localization on MRI/CT (Advanced)
Advanced course: caudate strokes can cause abulia (marked lack of initiative), slowed thinking, and behavior change with minimal weakness. Learn deep brain network logic and how MRI detects small ischemic lesions
Cavernous sinus & orbital apex syndromes — painful ophthalmoplegia vs stroke, and imaging workup (Advanced)
Advanced course: some emergencies mimic posterior circulation stroke with eye movement problems. Learn cavernous sinus/orbital apex syndrome basics, red flags, and the imaging pathway (CT/MRI/MRA/CTA) used to distinguish causes
Cerebellar hemorrhage — rapid posterior fossa danger, hydrocephalus, and CT detection (Advanced)
Advanced course: cerebellar bleeding can deteriorate quickly due to posterior fossa crowding and hydrocephalus risk. Learn symptom patterns, CT findings, monitoring, and urgent red flags
Cerebellar infarct swelling — 4th ventricle compression, hydrocephalus, and follow-up imaging (Advanced)
Advanced course: large cerebellar ischemic strokes can swell and compress the 4th ventricle, causing hydrocephalus and brainstem pressure. Learn imaging terms, why serial CT/MRI matter, and red-flag symptoms
Cerebellar strokes — vertigo, coordination loss, and when ‘dizziness’ is dangerous (Advanced)
Advanced course: cerebellar strokes often present with severe dizziness, vomiting, and coordination problems. Learn warning signs, imaging pitfalls, and why swelling can be risky
Cerebral angiography (DSA) — why it’s done, risks, and what results mean (Advanced)
Advanced course: understand digital subtraction angiography (DSA) when CTA/MRA aren’t enough—what it evaluates (aneurysm, dissection, vasculitis), procedure steps, risks, and aftercare
Cerebral edema after large infarct — imaging clues, midline shift, and monitoring timeline (Advanced)
Advanced course: swelling after a large ischemic stroke can peak over days. Learn imaging terms (mass effect, midline shift), how CT/MRI track edema, and what red-flag symptoms require urgent care
Cerebral microbleeds on MRI (SWI/GRE) — what they suggest and why they matter (Advanced)
Advanced course: MRI sequences like SWI/GRE can show microbleeds. Learn what microbleeds are, what patterns can suggest, and why they may influence bleeding-risk discussions for antithrombotics
Cerebral peduncle strokes — pure motor weakness, cranial nerve findings, and posterior circulation detection (Advanced)
Advanced course: strokes affecting the cerebral peduncle (midbrain motor pathways) can cause strong weakness with specific cranial nerve patterns. Learn what it looks like and how CT/MRI/CTA detect posterior circulation lesions
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) — hemorrhage patterns, MRV/CTV detection, and symptoms (Advanced)
Advanced course: CVST can cause headache and can lead to venous infarcts with bleeding. Learn how CTV/MRV detect it and what questions to ask about cause workup and anticoagulation
Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) — hemorrhagic venous infarct patterns and MRV/CTV detection (Advanced)
Advanced course: venous clotting can cause brain swelling and hemorrhagic infarcts that don’t match an artery territory. Learn presentation, why CT/MRI may show unusual bleeding patterns, and how MRV/CTV detect venous sinus thrombosis
Cervical artery dissection imaging — CTA vs MRA vs follow-up scans (Advanced)
Advanced course: understanding imaging for carotid/vertebral artery dissection—what CTA/MRA show, why repeat imaging is done, and how results influence activity restrictions and meds
Cingulate strokes — attention, pain, motivation changes, and medial brain detection (Advanced)
Advanced course: cingulate cortex is involved in attention, motivation, and pain processing. Medial strokes here may cause apathy, attention problems, or unusual pain experience. Learn detection and what it looks like
Community paramedicine and local clinics — how to use local resources in remote areas (Advanced)
Advanced course: leverage local clinics, visiting nurses, and community paramedicine programs (where available) for monitoring, prevention, and early escalation in remote areas
Conduction aphasia and the arcuate fasciculus — repetition problems and how MRI localizes disconnection (Advanced)
Advanced course: how a ‘disconnection’ between language comprehension and production networks can impair repetition. Learn what it looks like, how it differs from Broca/Wernicke patterns, and how MRI helps localize
Contrast reactions and imaging safety — what to report and how premedication works (Advanced)
Advanced course: what counts as a prior contrast reaction, what to tell radiology, and how clinicians may plan risk reduction (including premedication in selected cases)
Corpus callosum strokes — disconnection syndromes and what they can look like (Advanced)
Advanced course: corpus callosum connects the two hemispheres. Strokes here are less common but can cause ‘disconnection’ symptoms. Learn how it may present and how MRI detects it
Cortical blindness (bilateral occipital stroke) + Anton syndrome — what it looks like and imaging localization (Advanced)
Advanced course: bilateral occipital injury can cause cortical blindness with preserved eye structure. Some people deny blindness (Anton syndrome). Learn symptom patterns, safety issues, and how CT/MRI/CTA localize posterior circulation causes
Cortical laminar necrosis — subacute ischemic injury appearance on MRI and what it means (Advanced)
Advanced course: some subacute cortical injuries show a ‘laminar’ pattern on MRI after ischemia or other insults. Learn timeline concepts, what it can mean clinically, and how clinicians distinguish it from hemorrhage and seizure-related change
Cortical subarachnoid hemorrhage (cSAH) — thunderclap vs focal symptoms, CT/MRI clues, and workup (Advanced)
Advanced course: bleeding on the brain surface (cortical SAH) can present with sudden headache or focal deficits. Learn how CT/MRI detect it, why cause-finding matters, and how it differs from aneurysmal SAH patterns
Crossed cerebellar diaschisis — remote cerebellar effects after supratentorial stroke and imaging clues (Advanced)
Advanced course: sometimes a large cortical stroke causes reduced function/blood flow in the opposite cerebellum (diaschisis) without a primary cerebellar infarct. Learn the network concept and how perfusion/metabolic imaging can show it
CT and CTA for stroke — what they show, contrast safety, and timing (Advanced)
Advanced course explaining non-contrast CT and CT angiography: hemorrhage vs ischemia, vessel blockage detection, contrast considerations, and common questions
CT perfusion (CTP) in acute stroke — penumbra, core, and treatment decisions (Advanced)
Advanced course explaining CT perfusion imaging: what ‘core’ vs ‘penumbra’ means, why it’s used in stroke triage, and what questions to ask about eligibility for acute treatments
CT/MR perfusion imaging — penumbra vs core and how maps guide urgent decisions (Advanced)
Advanced course: perfusion imaging estimates blood flow patterns to distinguish likely irreversibly injured core from potentially salvageable penumbra in selected cases. Learn what maps mean and limits
CTA ‘spot sign’ and hematoma expansion — how contrast imaging can predict bleeding growth (Advanced)
Advanced course: in some ICH evaluations, CTA may show a ‘spot sign’ associated with higher risk of hematoma expansion. Learn what it means, why it’s looked for, and questions about monitoring and BP targets
CTA ‘spot sign’ in intracerebral hemorrhage — active bleeding risk and imaging interpretation (Advanced)
Advanced course: on CTA, a ‘spot sign’ can indicate active contrast extravasation within a hemorrhage and higher risk of hematoma expansion. Learn what it means, what CT/CTA show, and what monitoring questions to ask
Deep watershed infarcts — internal border zones, hypoperfusion clues, and MRI patterns (Advanced)
Advanced course: deep/internal watershed infarcts occur in border zones between deep perforator and cortical supplies, often linked to low flow or severe stenosis. Learn symptom patterns, MRI distribution clues, and vessel imaging workup
Delirium vs stroke symptoms — how hospitals test confusion changes (Advanced)
Advanced course: confusion can be stroke, delirium, infection, medication effect, or metabolic issue. Learn how hospitals evaluate sudden confusion and what to ask
Detecting aneurysm/AVM after hemorrhage — CTA/MRA/DSA pathway and what ‘underlying lesion’ means (Advanced)
Advanced course: after hemorrhage (SAH or lobar ICH), clinicians may look for aneurysm/AVM or other vascular lesions. Learn CTA vs MRA vs catheter angiography (DSA), why timing matters, and what results change
Detecting small hemorrhages — CT vs MRI (SWI), ‘trace SAH’, and why repeat scans happen (Advanced)
Advanced course: how imaging detects small bleeds, what ‘trace subarachnoid hemorrhage’ can mean, why MRI SWI helps, and why clinicians sometimes repeat imaging to confirm stability
Dural arteriovenous fistula (dAVF) — pulsatile tinnitus, hemorrhage risk, and angiography (Advanced)
Advanced course: dural AV fistulas are abnormal connections in the dura that can cause pulsatile tinnitus and, in some patterns, hemorrhage risk. Learn symptom clues, why MRI/MRA/CTA may suggest it, and why DSA is often definitive
Early ischemic stroke signs on CT + ASPECTS concept — how clinicians look for subtle changes (Advanced)
Advanced course: early ischemia can be subtle on non-contrast CT. Learn common early signs (loss of gray-white differentiation) and the ASPECTS concept as a structured way to describe MCA territory change
EEG and seizure evaluation after stroke — when it’s ordered and what results mean (Advanced)
Advanced course: understand EEG testing after stroke—why it’s ordered (confusion, spells), what ‘epileptiform’ means, and how results affect meds and safety planning
EKG/ECG in stroke workup — what it checks and what ‘AFib’ looks like (Advanced)
Advanced course: understand the ECG/EKG in stroke evaluation—why it’s done early, what rhythm issues it can detect, and what questions to ask about next steps
Emergency contacts + medical ID setup — phone, wallet, and home (Advanced)
Advanced preparedness course: set up phone medical ID, wallet card, home contact sheet, and a script for emergencies to reduce delays
Frontal lobe strokes — executive function, behavior changes, and safety for judgment (Advanced)
Advanced course: frontal lobe injury can change planning, impulse control, motivation, and personality. Learn symptom patterns, how ischemic vs hemorrhagic effects can differ, and caregiver safety strategies
Genetic and rare causes in young stroke — when to consider and how to ask (Advanced)
Advanced course on rare/genetic considerations in young stroke: when clinicians consider them, what family history to gather, and how to request evaluation without panic
Genetic testing in stroke (selected cases) — when it’s considered and how to interpret results (Advanced)
Advanced course: when genetics may be considered (young stroke, family history, unusual patterns), what results can mean (variant of uncertain significance), and what questions to ask
Glucose testing in stroke evaluation — why it’s done first and what to do if low (Advanced)
Advanced course: why glucose is checked immediately in suspected stroke, how low sugar mimics stroke, and what questions to ask about diabetes meds and prevention of repeats
Hemispatial neglect localization — right parietal networks, what it looks like, and bedside tests (Advanced)
Advanced course: how right hemisphere attention-network strokes create neglect, why it’s dangerous, how clinicians test it (line bisection/cancellation), and how MRI/CT localize ischemic vs hemorrhagic injury
Hemorrhage location matters — lobar vs deep ICH and what doctors look for (Advanced)
Advanced course: intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) location (lobar vs deep) shapes suspected causes and follow-up imaging. Learn the high-level reasoning and questions to ask about cause and prevention
Hemorrhagic cerebellar infarct — mixed ischemia + bleeding patterns and CT/MRI follow-up (Advanced)
Advanced course: sometimes a cerebellar ischemic stroke develops hemorrhagic transformation, creating mixed findings. Learn what imaging reports mean, how CT/MRI monitor posterior fossa risk, and what red flags matter
Hemorrhagic stroke testing — CT findings, causes, and follow-up imaging (Advanced)
Advanced course: intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) testing process—CT patterns, blood pressure focus, medication review (anticoagulants), and follow-up imaging to look for underlying causes
Hemorrhagic transformation — when ischemic stroke develops bleeding and how it’s detected (Advanced)
Advanced course: ischemic strokes can sometimes develop bleeding (hemorrhagic transformation), especially with reperfusion or large infarcts. Learn detection on CT/MRI and why it changes medication decisions
Hemorrhagic transformation after ischemic stroke — imaging patterns (HI vs PH) and what it means (Advanced)
Advanced course: after an ischemic infarct, bleeding can appear within the injured area (hemorrhagic transformation). Learn common imaging pattern language (petechial vs parenchymal hematoma), how CT/MRI detect it, and what questions to ask
Hippocampal/mesial temporal strokes — sudden memory loss, PCA branches, and MRI detection (Advanced)
Advanced course: small strokes affecting the hippocampus can cause abrupt memory problems. Learn what it looks like, differential diagnosis, and why MRI DWI is often needed for detection
Home hazard audit — room-by-room fall prevention checklist (Advanced)
Advanced fall-safety course: a room-by-room hazard audit (rugs, cords, lighting, bathroom, kitchen), plus a 30-minute weekly reset routine
Home safety on farms/rural properties — terrain, animals, tools, and fall prevention (Advanced)
Advanced course: reduce risks on rural property—uneven terrain, mud/ice, animals, tool areas, and safe pathways for stroke survivors
Hospital stroke workup workflow — who orders what tests and when (Advanced)
Advanced course: map the in-hospital stroke workup process by role (ER, neurology, radiology, cardiology, SLP/PT/OT) and how to track pending tests and results
Hypercoagulable (thrombophilia) testing after stroke — when it’s useful and how to interpret (Advanced)
Advanced course: understand thrombophilia testing (selected cases): when it’s considered (young stroke, VTE history), timing pitfalls, false positives, and how results may change management
Hyperdense artery sign on CT — what it suggests, false positives, and next imaging steps (Advanced)
Advanced course: explains the hyperdense artery sign (e.g., hyperdense MCA) on non-contrast CT, what it can mean (clot), common pitfalls, and how CTA/MRI confirm occlusion and tissue injury
Hypoxic-ischemic brain injury vs focal stroke — diffuse MRI patterns and clinical clues (Advanced)
Advanced course: not all ischemic brain injury is a focal ‘artery territory’ stroke. After cardiac arrest or severe low oxygen, MRI may show diffuse patterns. Learn how clinicians distinguish diffuse hypoxic injury from focal infarct/hemorrhage
Imaging for thrombolysis/thrombectomy decisions — CT/CTA/perfusion and what ‘eligible’ can mean (Advanced)
Advanced course for caregivers: how clinicians use CT to rule out bleed, CTA to find large vessel occlusion, and perfusion/mismatch concepts to decide on clot-busting or thrombectomy in selected cases. Focuses on questions families can ask
Imaging report checklist — what to copy into your notes from CT/MRI/CTA reports (Advanced)
Advanced course: a copy/paste checklist for capturing key imaging details (date, modality, findings, vessel status) so follow-up clinicians have the essentials without re-reading long reports
Insular strokes — autonomic symptoms, awareness, and why heart monitoring may matter (Advanced)
Advanced course: insula is involved in body awareness and autonomic regulation. Insular strokes may be associated with nausea, heart rate/BP changes, and awareness changes. Covers detection and monitoring questions
Intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) — stenosis, artery-to-artery emboli, and CTA/MRA follow-up (Advanced)
Advanced course: intracranial artery narrowing can cause strokes through low flow or artery-to-artery emboli. Learn symptom patterns, how CTA/MRA describe stenosis, and what prevention/follow-up questions to ask
Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and hydrocephalus — what it looks like on CT and why it changes monitoring (Advanced)
Advanced course: bleeding into the ventricles (IVH) can block CSF flow and cause hydrocephalus. Learn CT findings, symptoms of pressure, and common monitoring/escalation questions
Ischemic vs hemorrhagic detection workflow — why CT comes first and when MRI/CTA/MRA follow (Advanced)
Advanced course: end-to-end imaging logic in acute stroke: non-contrast CT for bleed, CTA for vessels, MRI DWI for early ischemia, and why location (posterior fossa) changes strategy
Kidney tests and contrast safety — creatinine/eGFR and imaging decisions (Advanced)
Advanced course: how kidney function labs (creatinine, eGFR) relate to contrast imaging decisions, what to ask about hydration/med changes, and why clinicians balance urgency vs risk
Lacunar (small vessel) vs cortical strokes — what they look like on imaging and exam (Advanced)
Advanced course: small vessel (lacunar) strokes often cause pure motor or pure sensory syndromes. Cortical strokes more often cause aphasia/neglect/field cuts. Learn detection with CT/MRI and why prevention differs
Lenticulostriate (deep perforator) strokes — classic lacunar patterns and MRI detection (Advanced)
Advanced course: small perforator artery strokes (lenticulostriate) can cause pure motor or sensorimotor deficits without cortical signs. Learn what it looks like, how CT/MRI detect it, and why prevention targets matter
Lobar intracerebral hemorrhage + cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) — imaging clues (microbleeds) and implications (Advanced)
Advanced course: some lobar hemorrhages in older adults are linked to cerebral amyloid angiopathy. Learn imaging clues (lobar microbleeds on susceptibility MRI), how CT/MRI contribute, and what questions to ask about recurrence risk and meds
Low internet/limited tech in remote areas — offline systems for meds, rehab, and records (Advanced)
Advanced course: when internet is unreliable—create offline systems for medication adherence, rehab routines, emergency info, and medical records portability
Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) in stroke-like symptoms — when it’s used and what it rules out (Advanced)
Advanced course: understand when clinicians use lumbar puncture during neurologic workups (e.g., infection, inflammation, subarachnoid hemorrhage concern) and what questions to ask
Midbrain strokes — eye movement palsies, pupil findings, and how CT/MRI detect small brainstem lesions (Advanced)
Advanced course: midbrain injury can cause distinctive eye movement problems and altered alertness. Learn what it looks like, why posterior fossa strokes can be missed early, and how MRI/CTA support diagnosis
Middle cerebral artery (MCA) strokes — why they cause face/arm weakness and language or neglect (Advanced)
Advanced course: MCA territory is common in ischemic strokes and can be affected by hemorrhage too. Learn symptom patterns (face/arm, aphasia vs neglect) and why side matters
Moyamoya disease/syndrome — ischemic and hemorrhagic patterns, ‘puff of smoke’ vessels, and imaging workup (Advanced)
Advanced course: Moyamoya involves progressive narrowing of intracranial arteries with fragile collateral vessels. It can cause ischemic strokes/TIAs and also hemorrhage. Learn what it looks like and how CTA/MRA/angiography support diagnosis
MRI and MRA for stroke — diffusion imaging, timing, and what ‘small infarct’ means (Advanced)
Advanced course on MRI/MRA: diffusion-weighted imaging, silent infarcts, vascular views, and how MRI results relate to symptoms and recovery planning
MRI DWI vs FLAIR — how early ischemic stroke is detected and what ‘mismatch’ means (Advanced)
Advanced course: DWI detects early ischemic injury; FLAIR evolves later. Learn what DWI/FLAIR mismatch means in plain language and how MRI helps estimate timing and guide treatment decisions
MRI perfusion (ASL) in stroke — penumbra clues, mismatch concepts, and limitations (Advanced)
Advanced course: arterial spin labeling (ASL) MRI perfusion can estimate blood flow without contrast in some settings. Learn how clinicians use perfusion–diffusion mismatch concepts, what ASL can/can’t show, and when CT perfusion is used instead
NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) — what it measures and why it affects treatment (Advanced)
Advanced course: understand the NIHSS exam score used in acute stroke—what is tested, why scores change, and how severity affects triage and monitoring
Occipital lobe strokes — visual field cuts, reading problems, and how vision loss is tested (Advanced)
Advanced course: occipital injury primarily affects vision. Learn what visual field cuts look like, how they’re tested (formal fields), and how imaging detects ischemic vs hemorrhagic injury
Outpatient stroke clinic follow-up — what tests often happen next and how to prepare (Advanced)
Advanced course: what commonly happens after discharge—stroke clinic visit, medication review, rhythm monitor results, repeat labs, imaging follow-ups—and how to prepare a strong ‘follow-up packet’
Paramedian pontine strokes — eye movement patterns, weakness, and basilar perforators (Advanced)
Advanced course: small perforator strokes in the pons can cause dense weakness with specific eye movement findings. Learn localization logic and how CT/MRI/CTA evaluate posterior circulation ischemia vs hemorrhage
Parietal lobe strokes — neglect, sensory integration, and spatial safety (Advanced)
Advanced course: parietal lobe strokes can cause neglect, sensory processing issues, and spatial problems leading to falls and injuries. Includes ischemic vs hemorrhagic notes and imaging detection
PCA strokes and macular sparing — occipital localization, visual fields, and MRI/CTA (Advanced)
Advanced course: PCA/occipital strokes often cause homonymous visual field loss; some people have ‘macular sparing’. Learn localization concepts, how formal field testing helps, and how CT/MRI/CTA detect ischemic vs hemorrhagic causes
PICA territory strokes — lateral medulla vs inferior cerebellum patterns and imaging (Advanced)
Advanced course: PICA strokes can affect the lateral medulla (Wallenberg pattern) and/or inferior cerebellum, causing dizziness, swallowing problems, and ataxia. Covers CT vs MRI detection and CTA/MRA vessel evaluation
Pontine hemorrhage — coma risk, breathing/swallow issues, and CT detection (Advanced)
Advanced course: pontine (brainstem) bleeding can cause sudden collapse, coma, abnormal pupils/eye movements, and severe weakness. Learn what it looks like, why CT is crucial, and what complications are monitored
Pontine strokes and ‘locked-in’ risk — basilar artery territory, detection, and communication safety (Advanced)
Advanced course: the pons contains critical motor pathways and cranial nerve systems. Large basilar territory strokes can cause severe paralysis with preserved awareness. Learn detection strategy and emergency questions
Posterior cerebral artery (PCA) strokes — vision loss, memory issues, and hallucinations (Advanced)
Advanced course: PCA territory strokes often affect vision and sometimes memory. Covers symptom patterns, safety (driving/falls), and differences in ischemic vs hemorrhagic presentations
Posterior communicating (PCoA) aneurysm — CN III palsy warning sign, CTA/DSA detection, and urgency (Advanced)
Advanced course: a PCoA aneurysm can compress the 3rd cranial nerve and may present with new drooping eyelid and pupil changes. Learn why this is urgent, and how CTA/MRA/DSA and CT rule out hemorrhage
Posterior fossa imaging pitfalls — why small cerebellum/brainstem strokes can be missed on CT (Advanced)
Advanced course: explains why posterior fossa anatomy makes CT less sensitive for small ischemic lesions, what MRI DWI adds, and when clinicians repeat imaging. Includes safety red flags and questions to ask
PRES (posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome) — seizures, vision loss, and MRI patterns vs stroke (Advanced)
Advanced course: PRES can mimic stroke with headache, seizures, and visual symptoms, and is often related to severe blood pressure or other triggers. Learn MRI pattern concepts, how it differs from infarct/hemorrhage, and urgent safety steps
Primary motor cortex strokes — the ‘homunculus’, weakness patterns, and detection (Advanced)
Advanced course: how strokes affecting the motor strip produce specific weakness patterns (face/arm/leg), how this differs from internal capsule strokes, and how CT/MRI localize injury
Primary sensory cortex strokes — numbness patterns, neglect vs sensory loss, and detection (Advanced)
Advanced course: how strokes affecting the sensory strip cause numbness/tingling patterns, how this differs from thalamic sensory strokes, and how to detect ischemic vs hemorrhagic injury with CT/MRI
Putamen strokes/hemorrhage — movement changes, speech slurring, and deep imaging findings (Advanced)
Advanced course: putaminal (deep basal ganglia) injury can cause sudden weakness, slurred speech, and movement changes. Covers ischemic vs hemorrhagic patterns, why CT is key for deep hemorrhage, and how MRI refines ischemic localization
RCVS (reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome) — thunderclap headache, hemorrhage/ischemia patterns, and CTA/MRA (Advanced)
Advanced course: RCVS can cause thunderclap headaches and lead to cortical SAH or ischemic strokes. Learn what it looks like, why vessel imaging (CTA/MRA) may show ‘beading’, and why repeat imaging can be needed
Reading test results language — ‘incidental finding’, ‘chronic’, ‘acute’, and ‘clinically significant’ (Advanced)
Advanced course: how to interpret common medical report phrases and ask clarifying questions so patients don’t panic or miss important findings
Recognize stroke and act fast (FAST and beyond)
A clear course on recognizing stroke, what to do in the first minutes, what to expect in the ER, and how to advocate for accessible communication
Repeat imaging after stroke — why scans are repeated and what changes over time (Advanced)
Advanced course: explains why clinicians repeat CT/MRI/vascular imaging (evolving stroke, hemorrhage follow-up, dissection healing, aneurysm/AVM evaluation) and how to track imaging comparisons
Retinal stroke (CRAO) and brain stroke connection — sudden vision loss, artery territory, and urgent imaging (Advanced)
Advanced course: sudden painless vision loss in one eye can be a retinal artery occlusion (‘eye stroke’) and is treated as a stroke emergency. Learn what it looks like, what imaging/workup evaluates sources (carotid/cardiac), and safety questions
Sedation and consent for stroke-related procedures — what to ask before TEE/angiography (Advanced)
Advanced course: preparation checklist for sedated procedures used in stroke workups (TEE, angiography). Covers fasting, medication questions, consent, and aftercare logistics
Seizure vs stroke — Todd’s paralysis, imaging pitfalls, and when MRI/EEG help (Advanced)
Advanced course: seizures can mimic stroke with temporary weakness (Todd’s paralysis) and language deficits. Learn how clinicians distinguish seizure from ischemic/hemorrhagic stroke using timeline, CT/MRI, and EEG
Shared decision-making for tests — how to decide if a test is worth it (Advanced)
Advanced course: framework for deciding on additional tests (yield, risks, alternatives, what it changes). Includes scripts to ask clinicians for probability and decision impact
Splenium (posterior corpus callosum) strokes — disconnection symptoms and MRI localization (Advanced)
Advanced course: posterior corpus callosum (splenium) lesions can cause disconnection symptoms (reading/writing integration, visual information transfer) and are often best seen on MRI. Covers ischemic vs hemorrhagic detection and differential diagnosis
Stroke cause categories (TOAST/ESUS) — how doctors label the cause and why it matters (Advanced)
Advanced course: understand how clinicians classify stroke cause (large artery, small vessel, cardioembolic, other, undetermined/ESUS) and how categories drive prevention strategy
Stroke emergency go-bag + last-known-well script (Advanced)
Advanced preparedness course: go-bag checklist, last-known-well script, medication list, and what to bring to the ER for faster care
Stroke foundations (Intro)
A beginner-friendly sequence covering what stroke is, how to recognize an emergency, what happens in the hospital, and what recovery often looks like. Designed to be understandable without medical background
Stroke in the young — common causes, workup, and questions to ask (Advanced)
Advanced overview for young stroke: common causes (dissection, PFO, clotting disorders), typical tests, and a question list to advocate for a complete workup
Stroke in younger adults — high-yield causes and the advanced workup roadmap (Advanced)
Advanced course: overview of young-stroke causes (dissection, PFO, genetic/metabolic, autoimmune, clotting disorders, drugs) and how clinicians sequence an advanced workup
Stroke location 101 — cortex vs subcortex and what symptoms it can create (Advanced)
Advanced course: how injury location (cortex vs subcortex) relates to symptoms like aphasia, neglect, vision loss, and motor/sensory changes—across ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes
Stroke mimics and how doctors test for them — seizure, migraine, low sugar, and more (Advanced)
Advanced course: common stroke mimics and the testing logic used to distinguish them from stroke (glucose, imaging, EEG, exam patterns)
Stroke risk scores (ABCD2, CHA2DS2-VASc) — what they are and limits (Advanced)
Advanced course: explains commonly referenced risk scores in stroke/TIA and AFib contexts, what they estimate, and why they don’t replace clinical judgment
Stroke testing overview — the full workup process and what each test is for (Advanced)
Advanced course explaining the typical stroke/TIA diagnostic workup: imaging, heart tests, blood tests, monitoring, and how results change treatment
Stroke types + tests (ischemic, hemorrhagic, TIA) — plain language
A plain-language course explaining ischemic vs hemorrhagic stroke, what TIA means, why location matters, and common tests (CT/MRI, vessel imaging, heart monitoring)
Stroke unit monitoring — what nurses and monitors are watching and why (Advanced)
Advanced course: explains common monitoring in a stroke unit (neuro checks, BP targets, heart rhythm, oxygen, swallowing safety) and what changes trigger escalation
Stroke workup with kidney disease — contrast decisions, lab checks, and medication dosing (Advanced)
Advanced course: how chronic kidney disease can affect imaging choices (contrast), lab monitoring, and dosing of common stroke-related medications. Educational overview
Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) vs intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) — what it looks like and how CT detects it (Advanced)
Advanced course: differentiates SAH (blood around the brain) from ICH (blood in brain tissue). Covers classic symptoms, why CT timing matters, and why additional testing may be needed in suspected SAH
Subclavian steal phenomenon — vertebrobasilar symptoms, Doppler clues, and vessel imaging (Advanced)
Advanced course: subclavian steal can reduce vertebrobasilar flow during arm activity, causing dizziness or posterior circulation symptoms. Learn the mechanism, ultrasound/Doppler clues, and how CTA/MRA evaluates vessels
Superior cerebellar artery (SCA) strokes — ataxia, dysarthria, and posterior fossa imaging (Advanced)
Advanced course: SCA territory strokes can cause severe coordination problems, slurred speech, and sometimes tremor. Learn clinical patterns and how CT/MRI/CTA localize ischemic vs hemorrhagic causes in posterior fossa
Supplementary motor area (SMA) strokes — initiation problems, ‘alien hand’, and detection (Advanced)
Advanced course: SMA strokes (often ACA/MCA border) can cause trouble initiating movement/speech, gait-start hesitation, and sometimes ‘alien hand’ phenomena. Learn ischemic vs hemorrhagic differences and how MRI/CT localize
Temporal lobe strokes — memory, language comprehension, and seizures (Advanced)
Advanced course: temporal lobe injury can affect memory, understanding language, and can increase seizure risk. Covers what it looks like clinically and how imaging detects ischemic vs hemorrhagic injury
Thalamic hemorrhage — altered consciousness, vertical gaze issues, and CT localization (Advanced)
Advanced course: thalamic bleeding can cause sudden drowsiness, confusion, and eye movement changes. Learn what it looks like, why CT is crucial, and how clinicians evaluate causes and complications like ventricular extension
Thalamic strokes — sensory loss, pain syndromes, and sleep/attention changes (Advanced)
Advanced course: thalamus is a sensory relay and attention hub. Thalamic strokes can cause numbness, unusual pain, and sleep/attention problems. Includes ischemic vs hemorrhagic notes
Thrombectomy evaluation — what doctors check and what ‘large vessel occlusion’ means (Advanced)
Advanced course on mechanical thrombectomy decision-making: imaging for large vessel occlusion, time windows, perfusion concepts, and transport decisions (transfer vs stay)
TIA vs stroke testing — why symptoms can disappear but workup is still urgent (Advanced)
Advanced course: explains TIA evaluation process, why urgent imaging/heart testing is needed even if symptoms resolve, and how results drive prevention decisions
Transcranial Doppler (TCD) in stroke — what it measures and how it complements CTA/MRA (Advanced)
Advanced course: TCD ultrasound can measure blood flow in major brain arteries and detect vasospasm or emboli signals in some contexts. Learn what it can/can’t tell you, and how it relates to CTA/MRA and clinical decisions
Transcranial Doppler (TCD) testing — what it measures and why it’s used (Advanced)
Advanced course: understand transcranial Doppler ultrasound—blood flow velocity, microemboli detection, and how it can support PFO/shunt evaluation or vasospasm monitoring in some settings
Troponin testing during stroke admission — why the heart is checked too (Advanced)
Advanced course: why troponin is sometimes checked during stroke hospitalization, what an elevated troponin can mean (not always a heart attack), and what questions to ask
Understanding abnormal labs during stroke hospitalization — what usually matters and what’s noise (Advanced)
Advanced course: interpret common lab abnormalities seen in hospital (electrolytes, kidney function, glucose, troponin) and how they connect to stroke safety and treatment decisions
Vasculitis and inflammation testing in stroke — labs, imaging, and specialist process (Advanced)
Advanced course: when clinicians suspect vasculitis/inflammatory causes of stroke—what labs and imaging may be ordered, why rheumatology/neuro consults happen, and how to track the process
Vertebral artery dissection — posterior circulation stroke mechanism and CTA/MRA detection (Advanced)
Advanced course: vertebral artery dissection can cause posterior circulation ischemic stroke (dizziness, imbalance, brainstem symptoms). Learn presentation clues and how CTA/MRA evaluate it
Vertebrobasilar (posterior circulation) strokes — why symptoms can be missed and how they’re detected (Advanced)
Advanced course: posterior circulation strokes can present with dizziness, double vision, and imbalance and may be missed early. Learn detection strategy (CTA/MRA/MRI) and red flags
Visual pathway localization — optic nerve vs chiasm vs tract vs radiations vs occipital stroke (Advanced)
Advanced course: how different lesion locations along the visual pathway create different field-loss patterns, and how MRI/CT help localize ischemic vs hemorrhagic causes
Watershed (border-zone) infarcts — low-flow strokes, patterns on MRI, and what doctors investigate (Advanced)
Advanced course: watershed infarcts occur in border zones between arteries and may suggest low blood flow or severe stenosis. Learn the imaging pattern and the workup questions (BP, carotids, heart)
Weather and disasters in remote areas — medication, power, and medical access plan (Advanced)
Advanced course: plan for storms, floods, wildfires, or outages when you’re far from care—medications, power backup for devices, evacuation routes, and communication plans
Wernicke’s area strokes — receptive aphasia, temporal-parietal injury, and detection (Advanced)
Advanced course: how posterior language-network injury causes receptive aphasia (difficulty understanding), what it looks like, safety risks, and how CT/MRI localize ischemic vs hemorrhagic injury
Modules and tools
Recognizing stroke and acting fast (FAST and beyond)
FAST + beyond-FAST stroke recognition module with last-known-well drills, emergency call scripts, and quick practice game
First hours and days after stroke (hospital: tests + what to expect)
Survivor/caregiver guide to the first hospital days after stroke: common tests, swallow screening, and discharge must-have checklist
Emergency ‘go-bag’ for stroke (what to bring to the ER)
A quick, printable checklist for what to grab (or pre-pack) when heading to emergency care: medication list, IDs, last known well, and key medical details
Emergency action card (printable) — FAST + last known well
Printable 1-page card: FAST signs, call emergency services, record last known well, what to tell EMS
Stroke effects explained (body + brain)
Plain-language map of common post-stroke effects (movement, speech, swallowing, vision, cognition, mood) and which specialist helps
TIA (mini-stroke): why it’s urgent + what to do
Plain-language TIA (mini-stroke) urgency module: what it is, why symptoms stopping is not safe, what to do immediately, mini-quiz, and urgency-sorting game
What is a stroke? (brain basics + types)
Plain-language definition of stroke with ischemic vs hemorrhagic types, why time matters, teach-back, and a type-sorting game