Stroke: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Methods
Stroke represents one of the most serious health problems today. Every year, approximately 7 million people loses his life due to stroke. This situation once again reveals the seriousness of stroke and that it is a disease that needs to be treated. Stroke is a condition that occurs as a result of sudden blockage or bleeding of the brain vessels and therefore requires emergency intervention.
What is a Stroke and What Causes It?
A stroke occurs when a brain vessel is suddenly blocked or bleeds. This causes brain cells to be deprived of oxygen and nutrients. There are two main types of stroke:
- Ischemic Stroke: It occurs as a result of blockage of brain vessels. Approximately 85% of such strokes are caused by ischemic strokes. Clot formation occurs due to damage or narrowing of the vascular wall.
- Hemorrhagic Stroke: Bleeding occurs as a result of rupture of brain vessels. This type of stroke usually occurs due to health problems such as high blood pressure.
Symptoms of Stroke
Stroke symptoms usually appear suddenly and may present as:
- Numbness or Weakness on Side of Body: Sudden feeling of numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body (left or right).
- Speech Disorder: The person is unable to articulate words properly or his or her speech becomes unintelligible.
- Loss of consciousness: The person's consciousness may become blurred or completely lost.
- Sudden Loss of Vision: Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes may occur.
- Loss of Balance and Coordination: Symptoms such as difficulty walking and loss of balance may be observed.
How Is Stroke Diagnosed?
Stroke diagnosis is made based on the patient's complaints and examinations. Brain damage can be detected through detailed examinations and imaging methods (CT or MRI) performed in the emergency room. Once the diagnosis is made, a rapid treatment plan appropriate to the patient's condition is prepared.
Stroke Treatment Methods
Stroke treatment methods vary depending on the type of stroke and the patient's condition. In general, treatment methods include:
- Clot-Opening Medications: In the case of ischemic stroke, intravenous clot-busting drugs are used. These drugs dissolve the clot in the cerebral vessels and restore blood flow. It should be administered within the first 4,5 hours.
- Angiographic Procedures: Angiography is a procedure to open the blood vessels in the brain. This should usually be done within the first 8 hours.
- Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation of patients after stroke with physical and speech therapy is important. This process plays a critical role in the patient's return to daily life.
Stroke Prevention Methods
To protect yourself from stroke, it is necessary to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Some protection methods are listed below:
- Balanced diet: A diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats promotes heart health.
- Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps control blood pressure and weight.
- Avoiding Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: These habits increase the risk of stroke.
- Regular Checks: It is important to have regular check-ups for health problems such as high blood pressure and diabetes.
Conclusion
Stroke is a health problem that requires rapid intervention and can be treated. When you notice its symptoms, you should go to the emergency room without wasting time. Remember, contrary to popular belief, stroke is a treatable disease and the most important factor is time. It is possible to reduce the risk of stroke by adopting healthy lifestyle habits.
