Clinical characteristics and risk factors for post-stroke cognitive impairment

Abstract

After a stroke, many patients may experience permanent cognitive impairment. This study aims to determine the rate of cognitive decline following a stroke, describe the clinical features, and identify risk factors associated with cognitive impairment after a stroke. A cross-sectional descriptive study with analysis was conducted on 185 patients admitted to the Neurology and Rheumatology Department at Can Tho General Hospital. The results showed that 37.1% of patients experienced cognitive decline post-stroke. The clinical features observed included limb weakness or paralysis (91.4%), language disorders (25.9%), sensory disorders (29.2%), and cranial nerve palsy (45.4%). The mean MMSE score at 4 weeks post-stroke was 23.71. Of the patients, 5.7% had severe cognitive impairment, 41.4% had moderate impairment, and 52.9% had mild impairment. Age, dyslipidemia, and education level were identified as factors related to cognitive impairment after a stroke. Thestudy also found that 25.6% of patients showed improvement in cognitive function, as measured by MMSE. Some side effects of medication were reported, including nausea (2.1%), diarrhea (1.3%), and anorexia (1.2%). Education level was found to significantly influence treatment outcomes. Therefore, it is important for stroke patients to undergo regular cognitive function assessments after the acute phase. Additionally, the potential benefits of using Galantamine to improve cognitive function in patients with cognitive impairment following a stroke should be considered.