Stroke

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Stroke

Overview

Tips and Extra Resources

OverviewOverview

A stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or severely reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. Strokes are medical emergencies, and prompt treatment is crucial. Early action can reduce brain damage and other complications.

There are two main types of strokes: ischemic stroke, which is caused by a blockage in an artery, and hemorrhagic stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel bursts. Understanding the type of stroke is critical for proper treatment.

Risk Factors

Numerous risk factors can increase the likelihood of having a stroke. Some of these can be managed or controlled, while others cannot.

High blood pressure
Diabetes
Heart diseases
High cholesterol
Smoking
Obesity
Age (especially those over 55)
Family history of stroke
Ethnic background (higher risk in African Americans and Hispanics)

Causes

Strokes are primarily caused by problems in the arteries in and around the brain. Understanding the cause is fundamental to provide the correct treatment and prevent future strokes.

Ischemic strokes are caused by:

Blood clots forming in the brain arteries (thrombotic stroke).
Blood clots or debris traveling through the bloodstream to the brain (embolic stroke).

Hemorrhagic strokes are caused by:

High blood pressure leading to the rupture of a blood vessel.
Aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).

Signs and Symptoms

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a stroke can save lives. Immediate medical attention is crucial.

Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body.
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or understanding speech.
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination.
Sudden severe headache with no known cause.

Diagnosis and Tests

Diagnosing a stroke quickly is vital for effective treatment. Various tests may be used to determine the type and cause of the stroke.

Common diagnostic tools include:

Physical examination
Blood tests
CT scan or MRI
Cerebral angiogram
Carotid ultrasound

Treatments

Stroke treatment depends largely on the type of stroke. Immediate treatment is ideal and can vary based on individual circumstances.

Treatment for ischemic stroke may include:

Clot-busting medications like tissue plasminogen activator (tPA).
Endovascular procedures to remove the clot.

Treatment for hemorrhagic stroke may include:

Medications to control bleeding, pressure, and other symptoms.
Anticoagulants:
Vitamin K antagonists.
Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs)
Low molecular weight heparins (LMWH)
Surgical procedures to repair or remove the damaged blood vessel.

Tips and Extra Resources

Preventing a stroke begins with managing risk factors and making healthy lifestyle choices. Here are some tips to safeguard your health:

For more information, the following resources can be helpful:

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