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What is a Stroke?
A Stroke is a medical condition caused when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted and disturbing the communication between the brain cells. A stroke is a medical emergency and can cause permanent damage to the brain and body. Depending on the severity of the stroke, complications can vary from severe disability to death.
Understanding the Different Types of Stroke
There are two main types of stroke, Ischemic and Hemorrhagic
Ischemic stroke is the most common type of stroke and occur when the artery supplying oxygen and nutrition to the brain becomes blocked. This blockage is usually caused by a buildup of plaque or a blood clot.
Hemorrhagic stroke is less common than ischemic stroke and happens when an artery in the brain bursts and causes bleeding into the brain. This type of stroke is usually caused by a brain aneurysm or lack of blood supply to tiny blood vessels in the brain.
What are the Causes of Stroke?
The diagnosis of stroke is largely attributed to three major risk factors, high blood pressure, diabetes and smoking.
High blood pressure is one of the major contributor to stroke as it can cause damage to the walls of the arteries, leading to a blockage of the blood supply.
Diabetes is also a major risk factor for stroke, as it can cause narrowing of the arteries and an accumulation of plaque.
Smoking is another major risk factor as it can lead to a build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries, leading to an increased risk of blockage.
Treatment Options
The treatment options available depend on the type of stroke and the speed at which the patient receives medical attention. Medical professionals can administer blood thinners, thrombolysis or surgery to remove a blood clot or repair a burst artery.
Rehabilitation is also an important part in the recovery process and can help to regain lost function and help the patient to cope with any physical and psychological effects of the stroke.
Preventing a Stroke
Most stroke can be preventable with healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly. It is important to maintain normal blood pressure and keep your cholesterol levels and sugar levels under control.
Quitting smoking and avoiding smoking can reduce the risk of stroke. Alcohol and drug use should also be limited as this can damage the arteries or cause an increased risk of stroke.
It is also important to manage and control any pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes, high cholesterol or kidney disease.
Conclusion
Stroke is a serious medical emergency and can cause permanent damage to the brain and body. Understanding the different types of stroke, their causes and treatment options are important in preventing and managing this serious condition. A healthy lifestyle, avoiding smoking and drinking and managing any pre-existing medical conditions all help in reducing the risk of stroke.