Stroke: Symptoms, Risks and Prevention

Stroke is a global threat. A man has this and does not have this. Suddenly everything is exhausted. At one time the term stroke was somewhat adapted to older people. But currently? Neither old nor young, no one is spared from this horrible sudden death. Why this stroke or sudden death? How is that? What are the symptoms? What is the way to escape? Let's know about “Stroke: Symptoms, Risks and Prevention”.

*What is stroke?

A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when there is a disruption in the blood supply to a part of the brain. This disruption can occur due to a blockage (ischemic stroke) or bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke) in the brain. Strokes can lead to brain damage and, if not treated promptly, can be life-threatening.

There are two main types of strokes:

Ischemic Stroke: This is the most common type of stroke, accounting for about 85% of all strokes. It occurs when a blood clot or plaque buildup blocks an artery, reducing or completely cutting off blood flow to a part of the brain. Without a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients, brain cells in the affected area can start to die.

Hemorrhagic Stroke: This type of stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures or leaks, leading to bleeding in or around the brain. Hemorrhagic strokes can be caused by conditions such as high blood pressure, aneurysms, or blood vessel abnormalities.

The common symptoms of a stroke can include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg (especially on one side of the body), confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech, trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, severe headache, and vision problems.

*How does a stroke happen?

A stroke occurs when there is a disruption in the blood supply to a part of the brain, leading to brain cell damage or death. There are two primary mechanisms through which strokes can happen: ischemic strokes and hemorrhagic strokes.

1. Ischemic Stroke: Ischemic strokes are the most common type, accounting for approximately 85% of all strokes. They occur when there is a blockage or obstruction in an artery that supplies blood to the brain. This blockage can happen in two ways:

a) Thrombotic Stroke: This type of ischemic stroke occurs when a blood clot (thrombus) forms within one of the brain's arteries, often due to the buildup of fatty deposits called plaque. This can narrow the artery and ultimately block blood flow.

b) Embolic Stroke: In an embolic stroke, a blood clot or other debris forms in another part of the body, usually the heart, and travels through the bloodstream until it reaches a smaller artery in the brain, where it becomes lodged and obstructs blood flow.

2. Hemorrhagic Stroke: Hemorrhagic strokes occur when there is bleeding in or around the brain. This can happen due to the rupture of a blood vessel. There are two main types of hemorrhagic strokes:

a) Intracerebral Hemorrhage: This type of stroke occurs when a blood vessel within the brain ruptures and bleeds into the surrounding brain tissue. It is often associated with conditions such as high blood pressure, which can weaken blood vessel walls.

b) Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Subarachnoid hemorrhage is less common and involves bleeding into the space between the brain and the thin membrane that covers it. This type of stroke is often caused by the rupture of an aneurysm (a bulging, weakened area in a blood vessel).

It's essential to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect someone is having a stroke or if you experience symptoms of a stroke yourself. Quick diagnosis and treatment are crucial for minimizing brain damage and improving the chances of a successful recovery.

*There are some normal and abnormal symptoms of stroke.

Stroke symptoms can vary depending on the type of stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic) and the specific area of the brain affected. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a stroke is crucial because prompt medical attention can make a significant difference in minimizing brain damage and improving the chances of recovery. Here are both normal and abnormal symptoms of a stroke:

1. Common Symptoms of Stroke (Normal):

Sudden Numbness or Weakness: This can occur in the face, arm, or leg, often on one side of the body. You might notice drooping on one side of the face or difficulty lifting one arm.

Confusion: Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech may be a sign of a stroke.

Trouble Walking: Individuals experiencing a stroke may have trouble walking, often accompanied by dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.

Severe Headache: A sudden and severe headache, often described as the "worst headache of my life," can be a symptom of a hemorrhagic stroke.

Vision Problems: Stroke can cause sudden blurred or double vision, loss of vision in one or both eyes, or trouble seeing in one or both eyes.

2. Less Common but Abnormal Symptoms of Stroke:

While the common symptoms listed above are widely recognized, strokes can also present with less typical symptoms. These less common symptoms can include:

Nausea and Vomiting: Some individuals may experience nausea and vomiting as a symptom of a stroke.

Hiccups: Persistent hiccups, especially if they are accompanied by other neurological symptoms, can be a sign of a stroke.

Sudden Change in Behavior: Stroke can cause sudden changes in behavior or mental status, such as confusion, agitation, or a sudden mood swing.

Unexplained fall: Sudden and unexplained falls or loss of consciousness can be due to a stroke, particularly in older adults.

Difficulty Swallowing: Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or drooling can occur in some stroke cases.

Sudden Loss of Balance or Coordination: Some individuals may experience a sudden loss of balance or coordination without other typical stroke symptoms.

It's important to remember the "FAST" acronym to help identify stroke symptoms:

F: Face drooping

A: Arm weakness

S: Speech difficulty

T: Time to call emergency services

If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, call 911 or the emergency services number in your country immediately and seek medical attention. Do not ignore or underestimate these signs, as timely intervention can save lives and reduce the long-term impact of a stroke.

*What damage can a stroke cause?

A stroke can cause various types and degrees of damage to the brain, depending on factors such as the type of stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic), the location of the brain affected, the size of the affected area, and how quickly medical treatment is received. Stroke-related damage can have a wide range of consequences, both short-term and long-term. Here are some of the potential effects and damage caused by a stroke:

1. Physical Impairments:

Paralysis or Weakness: Stroke can lead to paralysis or weakness in one or more parts of the body, often on one side. This can affect mobility and daily activities.

Loss of Coordination: Difficulty with balance and coordination may occur, making walking and fine motor tasks challenging.

Pain: Some stroke survivors may experience pain, often due to muscle stiffness or contractures.

Fatigue: Stroke survivors often experience fatigue, which can affect energy levels and daily functioning.

2. Communication and Language Problems:

Aphasia: Aphasia is a language disorder that can result in difficulty speaking, understanding language, reading, and writing.

Dysarthria: Dysarthria affects the muscles used for speech, leading to slurred or unclear speech.

Cognitive and Emotional Changes:

Memory Issues: Stroke can affect memory, making it challenging to remember recent events or new information.

Difficulty Concentrating: Some individuals may have trouble focusing or paying attention.

Emotional Changes: Emotional lability, depression, anxiety, and mood swings can occur after a stroke.

Personality Changes: Stroke may lead to changes in personality or behavior.

Vision and Perception Problems:

Visual Field Loss: Stroke can result in partial or complete loss of vision in one or both eyes.

Diplopia: Double vision can make it difficult to see clearly.

Spatial Neglect: Some stroke survivors may have difficulty perceiving objects on one side of their visual field.

Swallowing Difficulties: Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can occur, increasing the risk of aspiration pneumonia or malnutrition.

Seizures: Stroke can trigger seizures in some individuals.

Cerebral Edema: In some cases, a stroke may cause swelling (edema) in the brain, which can increase intracranial pressure and potentially lead to further complications.

Cognitive Impairment: Long-term cognitive impairments, including vascular dementia, may develop in some stroke survivors.

It's important to note that not all stroke survivors will experience all of these effects, and the severity can vary widely. Rehabilitation, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and psychological support, can play a crucial role in recovery and managing the impact of stroke-related damage. The extent of recovery also depends on factors such as the individual's overall health, the promptness of treatment, and the effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts. Early intervention and ongoing medical care are essential to optimize recovery and quality of life after a stroke.

*What are the ways to avoid stroke attack?

Reducing the risk of a stroke involves making lifestyle changes and managing underlying medical conditions. Here are some ways to lower your risk of a stroke:

Manage High Blood Pressure: High blood pressure (hypertension) is a significant risk factor for stroke. Monitor your blood pressure regularly and work with your healthcare provider to keep it within a healthy range through lifestyle changes and medication if needed.

Maintain a Healthy Diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. Limit your intake of saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium. A diet known as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) plan is particularly beneficial for blood pressure control.

Exercise Regularly: Engage in regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and improve overall cardiovascular health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week, as recommended by the American Heart Association.

Quit Smoking: Smoking significantly increases the risk of stroke. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to reduce stroke risk. Seek support and resources to help you quit if necessary.

Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of stroke. If you choose to consume alcohol, do so in moderation. The American Heart Association recommends no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

Control Diabetes: If you have diabetes, work with your healthcare team to manage your blood sugar levels effectively. Controlling diabetes can reduce your risk of stroke.

Manage Cholesterol: High levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol can contribute to plaque buildup in your arteries. Maintain healthy cholesterol levels through diet, exercise, and medication if prescribed.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is a risk factor for stroke. Achieve and maintain a healthy weight through a combination of diet and exercise.

Treat Atrial Fibrillation: Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, increasing stroke risk. If you have atrial fibrillation, your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce clot formation.

Control Other Chronic Conditions: Manage other medical conditions such as sleep apnea, heart disease, and peripheral artery disease to reduce stroke risk.

Take Medications as Prescribed: If your healthcare provider has prescribed medications for conditions like hypertension or diabetes, take them as directed.

Be Mindful of Family History: If you have a family history of stroke or certain genetic conditions that increase stroke risk, discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can help you develop a personalized prevention plan.

Stay Informed: Educate yourself about stroke risk factors and symptoms, and be aware of your own risk profile. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help assess and manage your risk.

Remember that stroke prevention is a lifelong commitment. Making these lifestyle changes and working closely with your healthcare team can significantly reduce your risk of having a stroke and improve your overall cardiovascular health.

-Stay healthy. God bless you.