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What is stroke? |
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Stroke, or brain attack, is damage to part of the brain caused by sudden block of its blood supply by a clot. Less commonly it occurs when a clot travels through the blood vessel from one part of the body to the brain (embolism) or when there is rupture of blood vessel and bleeding into the brain (haemorrhage). When blood flows to the brain stops, brain cells in that part of the brain may die. Stroke may damage parts of the brain that control how you move, feel, speak, think and behave. Stroke can affect individuals of all ages, but most commonly the elderly.
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How do I know if I'm having a stroke? |
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You may be having a stroke if you experience sudden onset:
- Slurring of speech
- Weakness (paralysis) in the face, arm, or leg on one side of the body
- Numbness on one side of the body
- Inability to speak or understand speech
- Dimness of vision
- Dizziness
- Imbalance
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Memory loss
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How can I avoid having a stroke? |
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Talk to your family doctor about your risk factors for having a stroke. Some things you can do to avoid having a stroke include:
- Quit smoking
- If your blood pressure is high, follow your doctor's advice to control it
- Avoid foods that are high in fat and cholesterol, and eat less salt, to lower your cholesterol and blood pressure
- If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar level under control
- Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables
- Have optimal exercise
- Control your weight
Ask your doctor for advice on making these lifestyle changes, and ask friends and family for support. Regular checkups are important to find problems that can increase your risk of having a stroke. If you have significant block in the blood vessels to the brain, it can be removed through angioplasty or surgery. |
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How is stroke diagnosed? |
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A person with stroke can be diagnosed based on a clinical evaluation. The face may not be symmetrical. The mouth droops and the patient is unable to show the teeth fully when smiling. He is unable to lift an arm above shoulder level. He may have a hard time talking clearly. A CT (Computed Tomography) scan or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan can confirm the diagnosis.
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What are the drugs used to treat stroke patients and prevent recurrence? |
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lot busters that dissolve a blood clot can be given if a stroke patient is brought to the hospital within three hours. Hence a person with suspected stroke should be brought to hospital as quick as possible. There are several therapies to prevent stroke recurrence such as "blood thinners" like aspirin, which will be decided by your physician. These medicines may have to be taken life long. Stroke can cause brain swelling and your physician will decide if medications are required to control it. Emergency surgery to treat brain swelling may be needed in a few cases.
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How long will recovery take? |
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80% of stroke patients will recover. Degree recovery depends upon the extent of brain damage. Recovery usually begins within 1 to 2 weeks. Most of the recovery that is possible will occur within 6 months, but some function may be regained as late as a year afterward. Speech Therapy can help you regain language skills and help improve your swallowing ability. Physical Therapy can help restore muscle strength and movement. Occupational Therapy can help you re-learn everyday skills so that you are less dependent on others. Depression, which occurs in more than half of all people after suffering a stroke, can be treated.
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