Learn Stroke in 5 minutes
Overview
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from receiving oxygen and nutrients. This can lead to brain cell death, and prompt treatment is crucial to minimize brain damage and complications. Ischemic strokes are the most common, caused by blocked or narrowed blood vessels, while hemorrhagic strokes occur when blood vessels leak or burst. Prompt observation of symptoms and seeking emergency assistance are essential in addressing a suspected stroke.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of stroke include: trouble speaking and understanding what others are saying, paralysis or numbness of the face, arm or leg, problems seeing in one or both eyes, and headache. If someone is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek immediate medical attention as a stroke is a medical emergency and prompt treatment is crucial.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing stroke include lifestyle factors such as being overweight or obese, physical inactivity, heavy or binge drinking, and using illegal drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine. Medical risk factors include high blood pressure, cigarette smoking or secondhand smoke exposure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, cardiovascular disease, personal or family history of stroke, heart attack, or transient ischemic attack, and COVID-19 infection. Additionally, older age, African American or Hispanic ethnicity, and male sex are associated with a higher risk of stroke.
Development
Ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke, occurring when blood vessels in the brain become narrowed or blocked, causing reduced blood flow. Fatty deposits, blood clots, or other debris can build up and block the blood vessels. Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain leaks or bursts, causing bleeding in the brain. Transient ischemic attack (TIA), also known as a "mini-stroke," is a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain that does not cause lasting symptoms. The initial research suggests that COVID-19 infection may increase the risk of ischemic stroke, but more studies are needed.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should 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. 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.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a stroke, doctors usually perform a combination of tests, including a physical exam, blood tests, imaging tests, and possibly other specialized procedures. These tests may include a CT scan, carotid ultrasound, cerebral angiogram, echocardiogram, and blood tests. In the event of a stroke, it is crucial to receive prompt medical attention, as emergency care can help minimize brain damage and improve the chances of recovery.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Complications of stroke can include paralysis or loss of muscle movement, difficulty speaking or swallowing, memory loss or thinking difficulties, emotional problems, and increased risk for people of African American and Hispanic descent, as well as men. Other risk factors such as use of birth control pills or hormone therapies that include estrogen can also increase the risk of stroke. These complications can be temporary or permanent, depending on the duration of the lack of blood flow to the brain and the affected area. Prompt medical attention is crucial to reduce brain damage and other complications.
Prevention
Stroke can be prevented to a significant extent by adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing risk factors, and following the recommendations of healthcare providers. Some key prevention strategies include controlling high blood pressure, eating a balanced diet low in cholesterol and saturated fats, quitting tobacco use, managing diabetes, maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and drinking alcohol in moderation. Additionally, addressing emotional and behavioral changes, as well as any pain or sensation abnormalities, can help in the overall recovery and prevention of future strokes.
Treatment
Prompt treatment is crucial for a stroke, and effective treatments can help prevent disability from stroke. Treatment options include:
- Clot-busting drugs: Intravenous or intra-arterial procedures can be used to dissolve blood clots causing an ischemic stroke. These drugs are most effective when given soon after a stroke begins.
- Endovascular therapy: In certain cases, doctors may use a catheter to remove blood clots or repair a damaged blood vessel.
- Antiplatelet and anticoagulant medications: These medications help prevent new blood clots from forming and reduce the risk of future stroke. Aspirin is a commonly used anti-platelet medication.
- Lifestyle changes: Making lifestyle modifications, such as controlling high blood pressure, quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet low in cholesterol and saturated fats, and engaging in regular physical activity, can help prevent further strokes. Remember, prompt medical attention is essential for stroke victims, as early action can reduce brain damage and other complications.
Please consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment regarding a stroke, you should:
- Make a list of your symptoms: Note down any symptoms you have experienced, including the timeline and their severity.
- Gather medical records: Collect any relevant medical records, such as previous test results, imaging scans, or hospital discharge summaries.
- Prepare a list of questions: Compile a list of questions you have for your doctor, including concerns about your symptoms, potential causes, and appropriate treatment options.
- Share your medical history: Provide your doctor with a comprehensive medical history, including any pre-existing medical conditions, medications you are taking, and any previous surgeries.
- Inform your doctor about any recent changes: Mention any recent changes in your overall health, such as new or worsening symptoms, changes in medication, or recent hospitalizations.
- Bring a family member or friend: Consider bringing a family member or friend to the appointment for support and to help you remember important information discussed during the appointment. By preparing in advance, you can make the most of your appointment and ensure that you and your doctor have a productive conversation about your concerns and treatment options.