Pediatric Stroke and Vascular Disorders
Because Childhood Stroke Deserves the Same Urgency — and Even More Compassion
At KidsHeart Medical Center, we care for children facing one of the most unexpected and serious neurological events: stroke.
Though rare, pediatric strokes and vascular disorders can cause lasting effects on movement, speech, or cognition.
They’re often misdiagnosed or discovered late — delaying critical care.
Our Pediatric Neurology team provides early evaluation, precise diagnosis, and thoughtful rehabilitation support across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain.
What Are Pediatric Strokes and Vascular Disorders?
A pediatric stroke occurs when blood flow to part of a child’s brain is blocked or bleeds — leading to brain injury.
There are two main types:
- Ischemic stroke: Caused by a blockage (clot)
- Hemorrhagic stroke: Caused by bleeding into the brain
Children can also have:
- Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis
- Moyamoya disease and vascular malformations
- Post-infectious vasculitis or sickle cell-related stroke
Symptoms vary by age but may include:
- Sudden weakness or paralysis
- Seizures, especially on one side
- Slurred speech or loss of speech
- Loss of coordination or balance
- Sudden severe headache or vomiting
These signs are urgent — and require immediate neurological evaluation.
When Should You Seek Help From a Pediatric Neurologist?
Contact us if your child:
- Has sudden, unexplained neurological changes
- Was diagnosed with a stroke and needs follow-up or rehab
- Has a known vascular disorder (e.g., moyamoya, AVM, sickle cell disease)
- Needs second opinion on an MRI or vascular finding
- Has a family history of clotting disorders or childhood stroke
Early intervention means better outcomes — and better recovery.
How We Diagnose and Support Children With Stroke
Here’s our step-by-step process:
- Detailed Neurological History and Event Timeline: We review symptoms, medical history, and any known risk factors.
- Neuroimaging (MRI, MRA, CT): These tools confirm stroke type, location, and severity.
- Blood and Genetic Testing: We assess clotting risk, inflammation markers, and possible underlying causes.
- Vascular and Cardiac Review: Some strokes begin in the heart — so we work closely with pediatric cardiology when needed.
- Rehabilitation and Long-Term Monitoring: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and learning support are often part of ongoing care.
We focus on restoring function — and helping families feel empowered throughout recovery.
Why Families Trust KidsHeart
- Pediatric Neurologists trained in stroke recognition and recovery
- Collaboration with cardiology, hematology, and rehab specialists
- Post-stroke developmental monitoring and support
- Emotional care for children and families during recovery
- Clinics across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain
Because every step forward after stroke is a team effort — and we’re with you at every one.
Dr. Azhar Daoud
Consultant & Prof, Pediatric & Child Neurology
Dr. Imad Yassin
Consultant Pediatrician/ Pediatric Neurologist – FRCPCH(UK) | Facharzt, FAMAP, Pediatric Neurology Cert (Austria)
Facing Stroke in Your Child? Let’s Take the Next Step — Together.
If your child is recovering from stroke or needs evaluation for a vascular condition, we’re here with clear answers and long-term support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. It’s uncommon, but real — and often under-recognized.
Causes, symptoms, and recovery are different — and require specialized care.
Many children recover well with early rehab and proper follow-up.
In some cases, yes — especially when caused by heart or blood conditions.
Often, yes. Early physical, speech, or occupational therapy supports brain recovery.