Stroke

A Stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is disrupted or, severely reduced, causing brain cells to die.

Why Does Stroke Occur?

The most common cause of a stroke is blockage of an artery in the brain by thrombosis due to Hypertension, high cholesterol, Diabetes Mellitus, smoking etc.
Cerebral hemorrhage/ rupture of blood vessel in the brain
Subarachnoid hemorrhage
A migraine headache
Vasculitis

What are the Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke?

Stroke symptoms occur suddenly. So, the patient can not take the necessary steps. So, family member or, person who is with the patient should be aware of it and take preventive measures and call a doctor. Signs and Symptoms are-

Dizziness, unsteadiness
Sudden loss of consciousness
Abrupt weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
Weakness in the muscles of the face
Loss of speech or difficulty speaking or understanding speech
Sudden difficulty seeing or loss of vision, particularly in only one eye.
A sudden and severe headache.
The trouble with walking or, coordination problems

When to make an appointment with a doctor?

Never ever wait to see if symptoms go away. If you have signs and symptoms of stroke, seek emergency medical care immediately. Otherwise, a serious complication may occur, even patient may die.

How can Stroke be Diagnosed?

The doctor will take a medical history, listen to symptoms from patient’s relatives and performs a physical examination of the patient. He/she will check blood pressure, pulse and other necessary things. He/she may order following tests-

Angiogram of the head
Blood tests including Bleeding time, Blood cholesterol and sugar, Blood clotting tests (prothrombin time or partial thromboplastin time), Complete blood count (CBC)
CT scan of the brain
MRI scan of the brain
Magnetic resonance angiography
Echocardiogram
Carotid duplex (ultrasound)
Electrocardiogram (ECG)

What are the Complications of Stroke?

Paralysis or loss of muscle movement
Breathing food into the airway
Memory loss
Poor nutrition
Pressure sores
Difficulty swallowing
Dementia
Emotional problems
Pain, numbness or other strange sensations in parts of your bodies affected by stroke
Changes in behavior
Speaking problems
Falls
Loss of mobility
Muscle spasticity
Problems thinking, understanding or focusing

What is the way of Stroke Prevention?

Control high blood pressure.
Control your cholesterol.
Control diabetes.
Exercise regularly.
Stop smoking or never smoke.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Drinking alcohol in moderation or don’t drink.
Avoid cocaine and other illegal drugs.
Know the symptoms of stroke
Talk to your doctor about the risk of birth control pills.
Choose a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Eat lean proteins, such as chicken, fish, beans and legumes.
Eat low-fat dairy products, fewer animal products and foods that contain cheese, cream, or eggs.
Avoid sodium (salt) and fats found in fried foods, processed foods, and baked goods.