A brain stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain stops abruptly. Blood flow is interrupted by a blockage or bleeding that can cause a lethal hemorrhagic stroke. In India, brain stroke is the biggest cause of death. Each year, over 20 million individuals suffer from stroke, with 5 million dying.
What are the Brain Stroke Symptoms?
It is important to know the brain stroke symptoms. The following are the most common symptoms.
- Severe headache
- Numbness
- Loss of vision and consciousness
- Memory loss
- Inability to walk
- Difficulty in speech, comprehending what others are saying
- Difficulty in drinking or swallowing
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle stiffness
- Behavioural changes
- Silent strokes
Effects Of Stroke
The effects depend upon which side of the brain tissue is affected. A brain stroke on the right side can cause the following effects.
- Paralysis on the right part
- Problem in eyesight
- Loss of memory
A brain stroke on the left side can cause the following effects.
- Paralysis on the left part
- Difficulty in speech
- Slow action
- Memory loss
Types of Brain Strokes
Ischemic Stroke occurs when blood veins in the brain develop a clot, cutting off the brain’s blood supply, and resulting in Ischemic Stroke. The clotting that forms in the brain’s blood vessel is called ‘thrombus’. It includes two types of stroke;
- Thrombotic: It is common in older people due to high cholesterol or diabetes. It happens when the blood clots inside the arteries, restricting blood flow into the brain.
- Embolic Stroke is the opposite of Thrombotic stroke, where the blood clot forms outside the brain. The clot then flows into the arteries blocking the blood flow.
Ischemic Stroke Treatment
At the BLK-Max Institute of Neurosciences, Ischemic Stroke is treated by restoring the blood flow to the brain. Drugs like aspirin, heparin and tissue plasminogen activators are injected. A team of expert professionals carries out surgical procedures. This includes:
- Carotid Endarterectomy includes the removal of plaque and widening of the carotid arteries.
- Angioplasty
Haemorrhagic Stroke
Hemorrhagic strokes happen when the blood veins in the brain burst, causing the vessels to bleed. A haemorrhage happens unexpectedly and is the most common type of stroke. Intracerebral and Subarachnoid are types of haemorrhage strokes. Hemorrhagic strokes are responsible for almost 40% of all stroke fatalities.
Hemorrhagic Stroke Treatment
The doctors at BLK-Max Hospital use surgical methods to carry out the following surgeries.
- Aneurysm Clipping- In this surgery, a clamp is inserted at the bottom of the Aneurysm that can separate blood flow in the artery attached to the same. This helps in protecting the Aneurysm from bursting out. It also prevents cases of re-bleeding in patients.
- Aneurysm Embolisation- A catheter is placed in the Aneurysm, which is used to insert a tiny coil into it. The coil fills the Aneurysm that clots and seals off the blood vessels.
- Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) Removal- Small AVMs that are present in the brain are taken out with the help of surgery. This can significantly reduce cases of rupture.
Risk Factors for Stroke
- Diet- A balanced diet is important for healthy living. Intake of salt, saturated fats, cholesterol and trans fat can increase the probability of a brain stroke.
- Alcohol and Smoking – Consumption of alcohol or tobacco can increase blood pressure levels causing atherosclerosis which causes plaque to form in blood arteries, restricting blood flow to the brain.
- Personal Background- Stroke is also affected by genetics. If your family background has a history of high blood pressure or diabetes, it is better to take preventive measures to check your blood pressure level.
Recovery From A Brain Stroke
It is important to start the recovery procedure as soon as possible. BLK-Max Hospital takes care of stroke recovery. The recovery process includes four main areas;
- Speech Therapy
- Cognitive Therapy
- Relearning Sensory Skills
- Physical Therapy
If you develop symptoms of a stroke, make sure to immediately visit the doctor. One of the most effective strategies to reduce your chance of long-term problems and impairment is getting treatment as soon as possible. Strokes cannot be avoided, but making several lifestyle modifications can significantly lower your risk. The right medications and consulting in a good hospital can also help minimise the chance of blood clots resulting in a stroke.
BLK-Max Hospital provides round-the-clock assistance to its patients with proper care and early diagnosis and treatment of stroke. The BLK-Max Institute of Neuroscience has the latest technology and high-precision procedures to provide fast recovery to its patients.
FAQs
Q. What are the chances of recovering from a brain stroke?
A. Ten per cent of the people recover almost immediately with proper care and medications. 25% recover with mild limitations, and another 40% have moderate to severe disabilities that need specialised care.
Q. After a stroke, can a person go back to living a normal life?
A. Yes, stroke can be cured with the right treatment taken at the right time. A stroke can be treated, and the person can go back to living a normal life. Avoiding alcohol, smoking, consuming salt etc., can be adopted to prevent stroke.
Q. What foods should you stay away from?
A. Foods with high sugar content, fatty meat, processed food, and sweets should be avoided.
