A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from receiving the necessary oxygen and nutrients. This can lead to brain cell damage and loss of function. There are two primary types of stroke:
Types of Stroke
Ischemic Stroke
- The most common type, accounting for about 87% of strokes.
- Caused by a blockage in an artery supplying blood to the brain, often due to a blood clot.
Subtypes include:
- Thrombotic Stroke: A clot forms in an artery that supplies blood to the brain.
- Embolic Stroke: A clot forms elsewhere in the body and travels to the brain.
Haemorrhagic Stroke
- Occurs when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, leading to bleeding in or around the brain.
- Can result from conditions like high blood pressure, aneurysms, or arteriovenous malformations.
Symptoms
- Sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body.
- Confusion or difficulty speaking and understanding speech.
- Vision problems in one or both eyes.
- Difficulty walking, dizziness, or loss of balance and coordination.
Diagnosis
- Medical history and physical examination.
- Imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs to identify the type of stroke and its location.
Treatment
- Ischemic Stroke: Treatments may include clot-dissolving medications (thrombolytics) and procedures to remove clots (thrombectomy).
- Haemorrhagic Stroke: Focuses on controlling bleeding and reducing pressure in the brain, possibly requiring surgery.
Rehabilitation
- Many stroke survivors undergo rehabilitation to recover lost skills and adapt to any lasting effects. This may involve physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.
Prevention
Lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, managing blood pressure, controlling diabetes, and avoiding smoking can reduce the risk of stroke.
Early recognition and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in stroke patients. The acronym FAST (Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, Time to call emergency services) helps identify stroke symptoms quickly.
