STROKE: Let’s talk about this

STROKE: Let’s talk about this

Stroke is common to our knowledge but let’s dig deeper into what is this disease. Let’s start, so what is a stroke? Stroke is also known as a cerebrovascular accident or CVA is a sudden interruption in the blood supply of the brain. Most strokes are caused by an abrupt blockage of arteries leading to the brain (ischemic stroke).  Other strokes are caused by bleeding into brain tissue when a blood vessel bursts (hemorrhagic stroke). Because stroke occurs rapidly and requires immediate treatment, stroke is also called a brain attack. When the symptoms of a stroke last only a short time (less than an hour), this is called a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or mini-stroke.



Who are at more risk of having a stroke?

  • high blood pressure
  • high cholesterol
  • smoking
  • diabetes
  • increasing age

This is common for aging people but when a stroke occurs in younger individuals (less than 50 years old), less common risk factors to be considered include illicit drugs, such as cocaine or amphetamines, ruptured aneurysms, and inherited (genetic) predispositions to abnormal blood clotting.



Symptoms & Warning:

  • Trouble speaking and understanding what others are saying.
  • Paralysis or numbness of the face, arm, or leg.
  • Problems seeing in one or both eyes.
  • Headache
  • Trouble Walking
  • High blood pressure
  • Facial droop
  • Acute change in the level of consciousness or confusion
  • Difficulty with balance and vertigo


A stroke is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is crucial. Early action can reduce brain damage and other complications. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any signs or symptoms of a stroke, even if they seem to come and go or they disappear completely. Think "FAST" and do the following:


  • Face. Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
  • Arms. Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? Or is one arm unable to rise?
  • Speech. Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is his or her speech slurred or strange?
  • Time. If you observe any of these signs, call 911 or emergency medical help immediately.

Call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Don't wait to see if symptoms stop. Every minute counts. The longer a stroke goes untreated, the greater the potential for brain damage and disability




Reference:

https://www.medicinenet.com/





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