These areas are primarily thefrontal, parietal, and temporal lobes.

Anatomy and Purpose

There are four parts of the MCA.

These include:

The MCA segments lead to 10 branches to supply blood to parts of the brain.

Doctor viewing brain scans

TEK IMAGE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Getty Images

Anatomical Variations

Anatomical variations can affect the MCA.

Associated Conditions

Strokeis the main health condition in which the MCA plays a role.

The opposite side of the body from where the stroke has occurred is commonly affected.

Lifestyle factors, including smoking, also play a role.

Diagnosis

Several methods are used to evaluate symptoms and diagnose a stroke.

They include:

These tests can confirm a stroke and rule out other possible causes of symptoms.

Each person suffering from a middle cerebral artery stroke has a different recovery time and need for long-term care.

Others may have trouble finding a word or being able to speak more than a phrase at a time.

Time is of the essence, so do not delay getting emergency medical treatment.

The American Stroke Association urges you to know the F.A.S.T.

Anatomical variations are common with the MCA.

Strokes often affect the MCA, including TIA-like “ministrokes.”

It’s important to seek immediate care if you experience stroke symptoms.

Early intervention from healthcare providers can improve the outcome of stroke in some cases.

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