Brain Stroke: Understanding the Threat

A brain stroke is a sudden medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to a part of your brain is disrupted.

Did you know?

About 1,85,000 strokes are said to occur every year in India, with nearly one stroke happening every 40 seconds.

In a matter of minutes, brain cells begin to die due to a lack of oxygen. To reduce the risk, it is crucial to understand the causes and factors that can increase the chances of having one.

Types of Brain Strokes

• Ischemic Stroke:It accounts for 8 out of 10 strokes and occurs when blood vessels that supplies blood to the brain becomes blocked. This blockage can happen due to fatty deposits breaking off from arteries or the formation of blood clots caused by irregular heartbeats.
• Hemorrhagic Stroke:it is less common but can be more severe, occurs when a blood vessel in the brain balloons and bursts, or when a weakened blood vessel leaks. Uncontrolled high blood pressure and the excessive use of blood-thinning medications can lead to this type of stroke.

Several factors can increase your risk of a stroke:

• High Blood Pressure:Hypertension is the leading cause of strokes. If your blood pressure consistently measures at 130/80 or higher, consult your doctor for treatment options.
• Tobacco Use:Smoking or chewing tobacco raises your stroke risk by increasing blood pressure and promoting blood clot formation.
• Heart Disease:Conditions like defective heart valves, atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat), and clogged arteries due to fatty deposits contribute to stroke risk.
• Diabetes:High blood pressure and obesity, often associated with diabetes, elevate the chances of having a stroke. Diabetes also damages blood vessels, making strokes more likely.
• Weight and Exercise:Being overweight increases stroke risk, but regular exercise can lower it. Engaging in daily physical activity, such as a brisk 30-minute walk or muscle-strengthening exercises, can be protective.
• Medications:Certain drugs, like blood thinners and hormonal therapies, can raise the risk of stroke, either through bleeding or other mechanisms. Discuss potential risks with your healthcare provider.
• Family History:A family history of high blood pressure, diabetes, or genetic disorders that affect blood flow can predispose you to strokes.

You can tell if someone is having a stroke by their arm weakness or facial drooping.

Know the Fact: Strokes can present with a wide range of symptoms, including speech difficulties, vision problems, and confusion.

The ACT FAST acronym is a helpful tool for recognizing stroke symptoms:

F Facial weakness

A Arm weakness

S Speech difficulty

T Time to call emergency

Remember that recognizing any of these symptoms is an urgent sign to call for medical assistance immediately.

Time is critical in minimizing the damage and improving the chances of a positive outcome after a stroke.

Ref Link: India Bears 71% of World's Stroke Death Burden | Weather.com