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Stroke, also known as cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a serious medical condition that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, leading to damage or death of brain cells. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide and a major cause of disability.
Types of Stroke
There are two main types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic.
Ischemic Stroke
Ischemic is caused by a blockage or clot in a blood vessel supplying the brain. The clot may form in the blood vessel in the brain itself, or it may form elsewhere in the body and travel to the brain. This type is the most common, accounting for about 85% of all strokes.
There are two types of ischemic stroke:
- Thrombotic Stroke: This type occurs when a blood clot forms in an artery that supplies blood to the brain. The clot usually forms in a region that has already been narrowed by a buildup of fatty deposits in the blood vessels. Thrombotic strokes often occur at night or in the morning when blood pressure is higher.
- Embolic Stroke: This type occurs when a blood clot or other debris forms in a blood vessel outside the brain and travels to the brain. The clot can travel from the heart, a blood vessel in the neck, or other parts of the body. Embolic strokes usually occur suddenly and without warning.
Hemorrhagic Stroke
Hemorrhagic is caused by bleeding in the brain from a ruptured blood vessel. This type is less common, accounting for about 15% of all strokes.
There are two types of hemorrhagic stroke:
- Intracerebral Hemorrhage: This type occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts and blood leaks into the surrounding brain tissue, causing damage to the brain cells. This type of stroke is often caused by high blood pressure, which weakens the blood vessel walls and makes them more prone to rupture.
- Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: This type occurs when there is bleeding in the space between the brain and the tissues that cover it. This can be caused by a ruptured aneurysm (a weakened and bulging blood vessel), head injury, or other conditions.
Symptoms of Stroke
Stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. The symptoms of it can vary depending on the location and extent of the brain damage, but common symptoms include:
Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body
This is often the first and most obvious symptom of stroke. One side of the body may become weak or numb, and the person may have difficulty moving the affected limb or controlling facial muscles.
Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
It can affect the muscles in the mouth and throat, making it difficult for the person to speak clearly. They may also have difficulty understanding what others are saying. A sudden, severe headache that is different from any headache the person has experienced before can be a symptom of stroke.
Dizziness and Loss of Vision
Stroke can cause visual disturbances, such as sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes, or double vision. The person may feel dizzy or unsteady on their feet, and may have difficulty maintaining their balance.
It’s important to note that these symptoms can occur suddenly and without warning. In some cases, the symptoms may be mild or temporary and then disappear. However, any of these symptoms should be taken seriously and medical attention should be sought immediately. Early treatment can help reduce the damage caused by this condition and improve the chances of recovery. Remember, “time is brain,” so the faster the person receives medical attention, the better the outcome is likely to be.
Important Notes
Stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. The earlier the treatment is given, the better the chances of recovery. Treatment for stroke depends on the type and severity of this condition, but may include medication to dissolve the clot, surgery to remove the clot or repair the damaged blood vessel, and rehabilitation to help the patient regain lost abilities.
Prevention is key when it comes to stroke. Some risk factors include, such as age and family history, cannot be changed, but others, such as high blood pressure, smoking, and obesity, can be modified through lifestyle changes and medication. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can all help reduce the risk of stroke.
In conclusion, stroke is a serious and potentially life-threatening medical condition that requires prompt medical attention. Understanding the symptoms and risk factors, and taking steps to reduce those risk factors, can help prevent it and improve the chances of recovery for those who do experience a stroke.