Can cerebral infarction be cured?

Stroke does not necessarily result in immediate paralysis. Recovery depends on the size of the lesion, timing of treatment, and individual patient factors. If some patients reach the hospital within the "golden 4.5 hours," intravenous thrombolytic therapy can reopen blocked blood vessels and reduce the risk of disability; alteplase and urokinase are commonly used thrombolytic agents. In cases of major vessel occlusion, mechanical thrombectomy may also be performed, followed by antiplatelet therapy with aspirin or clopidogrel to consolidate therapeutic effects.

For localized lacunar infarcts, most patients can regain walking ability and daily self-care skills close to pre-stroke levels through systematic rehabilitation. Conversely, missing the treatment window or having a large infarct area leads to more extensive neuronal death, reducing the potential for recovery. Even small lesions affecting critical areas such as the brainstem or thalamus may result in severe sequelae like swallowing difficulties or limb paralysis.

Secondary prevention is equally crucial: statins help stabilize arterial plaques, while butylphthalide promotes collateral circulation. Blood pressure and blood glucose must be consistently controlled over the long term. The first 1–3 months after stroke represent the peak period for functional reorganization, during which targeted training in motor function, speech, and swallowing should be conducted under guidance from a rehabilitation specialist.

After discharge, maintain a low-salt, low-fat diet, regularly monitor blood pressure, blood glucose, and lipid levels, and undergo carotid ultrasound and brain imaging every 6–12 months to detect and intervene early on any vessel narrowing. Avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, preventing sleep deprivation, and minimizing emotional fluctuations are essential to minimizing the risk of recurrent stroke.