A Cerebrovascular Accident (CVA), commonly known as a stroke, occurs when there is a disruption in the blood supply to the brain, resulting in damage to brain tissue. Strokes can be broadly categorized into two main types:
- Ischemic Stroke: This is the most common type, accounting for about 85% of all strokes. It occurs when a blood clot or atherosclerotic plaque blocks or narrows an artery leading to the brain. As a result, the affected part of the brain does not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, leading to tissue damage.
- Hemorrhagic Stroke: This type occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts or leaks. This bleeding puts pressure on brain tissue and can damage cells. Hemorrhagic strokes can result from conditions such as high blood pressure (hypertension), aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), or head trauma.
Who Is Impacted By It?
All ages can undergo a stroke, including children and adults, but again some individuals have a greater risk and are more vulnerable than others. Strokes are also more familiar in the later age (those over 65 account for around two-thirds of all stroke cases).
Also, some medical disorders, such as high blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia), Type 2 diabetes, and those with a history of stroke, and heart attack increase the threat of stroke!
Symptoms of Stroke:
- Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body.
- Sudden confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding speech.
- Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
- Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
- Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance, or coordination.
Diagnosis:
- Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will assess symptoms, neurological function, and vital signs.
- Imaging Tests: CT (Computed Tomography) scan or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is used to visualize the brain and determine the type and location of the stroke.
- Blood Tests: These may be done to check blood sugar levels, electrolytes, and to rule out other possible causes of symptoms.
Treatment:
- Ischemic Stroke: Immediate treatment often involves dissolving or removing the clot to restore blood flow to the brain. This can be done with clot-busting medications (like tissue plasminogen activator – tPA) or mechanical thrombectomy (surgical removal of the clot).
- Hemorrhagic Stroke: Treatment aims to control bleeding, reduce pressure on the brain, and stabilize vital signs. Surgery may be necessary to repair blood vessel abnormalities or to remove blood from the brain.
Rehabilitation:
- After the acute phase of treatment, rehabilitation plays a crucial role in stroke recovery. Physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and lifestyle modifications are often part of a comprehensive rehabilitation program.
Prevention:
- Risk Factor Management: Controlling high blood pressure, managing diabetes, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy diet and weight are important preventive measures.
- Medications: Aspirin or other antiplatelet medications may be recommended to reduce the risk of ischemic stroke in certain individuals.
Prompt recognition of stroke symptoms and quick medical intervention are critical for minimizing brain damage and improving outcomes. If you or someone else experiences symptoms of a stroke, it is essential to seek emergency medical attention immediately.
For consultation and greater knowledge talk to the Best Neurosurgeon In Coochbehar and get relieved instantaneously!