Know About Brain Stroke

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die in minutes. A stroke is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is crucial. There are two main causes of stroke: a blocked artery (ischemic stroke) or leaking or bursting of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke).  Signs and symptoms of stroke include: Paralysis or numbness of the face, arm or leg, trouble speaking, sudden vision loss, imbalance and vertigo. If you notice any signs or symptoms of a stroke, even if they seem to come and go or they disappear completely. Think “FAST” and do the following:

• Face. Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
• Arms. Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward? Or is one arm unable to rise?
• Speech. Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is his or her speech slurred or strange?
• Time. If you observe any of these signs, call 911 or emergency medical help immediately.

Risk factors of stroke include: Obesity, physical inactivity, use of illegal drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamine, high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, cardiovascular disease, family history of stroke, heart attack or transient ischemic attack, COVID-19 infection. Treatment includes thrombolytic therapy within the first 4.5 hrs wherein the stroke can be reversed. Other than that, antiplatelets, statins, rehabilitation & control of risk factors need to be done.