What is one major contraindication for thrombolytic therapy in ischemic stroke?

Thrombolytic therapy is a treatment used in the case of ischemic stroke to dissolve blood clots and restore blood flow to the brain. One major contraindication for this therapy is active bleeding or recent major surgery. This is critical because thrombolytic agents work by breaking down clots, but they can also increase the risk of bleeding. If a patient is actively bleeding, administering thrombolytics could exacerbate the situation and lead to life-threatening complications. Similarly, if a patient has recently undergone major surgery, the potential for hemorrhage is heightened, making thrombolysis a risky endeavor.

Other factors such as a history of stroke or age over 65 may have implications for stroke management and outcomes but do not present an immediate risk for significant bleeding during treatment like active bleeding or history of surgery does. High cholesterol levels, while a risk factor for stroke, are not a direct contraindication to thrombolytic therapy.