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Cerebral stroke |
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'Strokes' are one of the commonest causes of death. A stroke is caused by block age of a cerebral artery by a clot forming in it (thrombus) or reaching it from elsewhere (embolus) or bleeding from an artery into brain tissue. Bleeding may be due to high BP. The artery may have been already hardened and narrowed by atherosclerosis. An embolism is often a clot dislodged from the heart or a major artery carrying blood to the head. Insufficient blood supply for more than 4-5 minutes or bleeding can lead to the death of brain cells in the affected area. There may be hereditary factors involved. High Bp, high cholesterol, heart disease, bleeding disorders, medications to prevent blood clots, liver disease, diabetes, smoking, alcoholism, drug addictions and AIDs are among factors adding to the risk of a stroke. Usually, symptoms of a stroke due to an embolism begin suddenly. They vary in nature and degree depending on the artery involved, the collateral supply and which areas of the brain are affected. Among the many possible symptoms are abnormal functions of varying degree - involving eye movements and vision, speech, sensations, muscles and movement, body balance, behavior, memory and consciousness. Some specifics symptoms are: confusion; headache; nausea; vomiting; dizziness; deafness; neck stiffness; fits; muscle rigidity; paralysis; vision problems; unsteady gait; difficulty in understanding, speaking or swallowing; loss of bladder control; abnormal sensations; and memory loss. A stroke may lead to semi consciousness and coma. Imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans, ECG, and lab tests confirm the diagnosis. In case of doubt even after Cr, tests of the cerebrospinal fluid (or CSF) may be needed. What you can do Consult. A stroke requires urgent hospitalization. An ambulance with trained staff and life-saving equipment can help start treatment without delay. As the patient is being moved make sure he is in a comfortable position and there is no obstruction to breathing due to secretions or the tongue falling back. Drug treatment is aimed at saving life, reducing the chances of further strokes by countering thrombus and embolus formation, minimizing nervous system deficits by reducing any brain swelling and damage to brain cells, and gradually returning the person to as normal activity as is possible. Physiotherapy is useful for recovery of movements. Speech therapy may also be required. Mechanical devices may be needed to assist movements and mobility in severe cases. There is a risk of more strokes or heart attacks. Regular monitoring by the doctor is required after recovery from a stroke. In long term treatment a low-fat healthy diet; avoiding addictions and regulated exercise - all as advised by the doctor - are important. A family history should warn people at greater risk to take early the right steps in lifestyle, including diet and exercise. Consult, for precautions and preventive steps. Medical checkups should be done at reasonable intervals, annually after 40. Control of cholesterol and high BP through lifestyle changes and medications is important. As in the case of coronary disease, doctors now recommend foods containing omega-3 fatty acids and even small daily amounts of alcohol for reducing cholesterol and the risk of artery blockage.
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