Strokes
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or bursts. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the blood and oxygen it needs, so it and brain cells die. Strokes can be fatal and require immediate treatment.
Warning Signs
Signs of stroke vary depending on which part of the brain is affected, however the most common are listed below.
Watch for Sudden:
NUMBNESS or weakness of face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body
CONFUSION, trouble speaking or understanding speech
TROUBLE SEEING in one or both eyes
TROUBLE WALKING, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
SEVERE HEADACHE with no known cause
Types of Strokes
Ischemic strokes happen when a blood clot obstructs the flow of blood to the brain. They are often a result of atherosclerosis (hardened arteries), atrial fibrillation (especially when sleep apnea causes it), clotting disorders, or microvascular ischemic disease.
Hemorrhagic strokes happen when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and prevents the flow of blood. Causes can include brain aneurysms, brain tumors, high blood pressure, or other conditions that weaken blood vessels.
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) or “mini-stroke” is caused by a temporary clot. These are often warning signs that a person has a very high risk of having a true stroke soon and should seek medical care immediately.
Management and Treatment
For an ischemic stroke, thrombolytic medications and/or surgery is used to break up the blood clot. Medications to manage blood pressure may also be prescribed.
For a hemorrhagic stroke, medications are used to stop the bleeding in the brain and manage blood pressure. Surgery may be required to reduce the increased intracranial pressure around the brain.
Stroke Rehabilitation
Stroke rehab helps a person to regain abilities or adjust to new or different disabilities as a result of the stroke. Most people take a few months to recover after a stroke; however even after treatment, symptoms can continue for a year or longer. Rehab may include:
Cognitive rehab to help improve memory, concentration and other mental abilities
Occupational therapy to help complete daily tasks
Physical therapy to strengthen muscles, improve balance and regain the use of arms and legs
Speech therapy to regain or improve language and speaking abilities and control the muscles that help with talking, breathing, eating and swallowing
Ways to Prevent a Second Stroke
About one in four stroke survivors suffers a second stroke. The following can help reduce this risk:
Know the cause of the previous stroke
Manage high blood pressure
Control cholesterol
Reduce blood sugar
Be active
Eat better
Lose weight
Stop smoking
Take medications as prescribed