Stroke occurs due to a decrease or blockage in the brain’s blood supply. When the brain does not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, damage may start to occur. A person experiencing a stroke needs immediate emergency treatment. Most of the strokes are treatable however some may lead to damage of part of brain or even death. Stroke is the 5th leading cause of death in the United States with nearly 800,000 people have a stroke each year.
The 3 type of strokes are Ischemic stroke (caused due to a clot) , Hemorrhagic stroke ( rupture of blood vessel) or Transient ischemic attack ( also called a ministroke – happens when blood flow to a part of brain is limited for a short period of time and then resumes).
Ischemic stroke is the most common type. This is caused due to blockage of a vessel carrying blood to brain . This is treated by medication to breakdown the clot and prevent more from forming. A doctor may administer blood thinners such as aspirin or an injection of tissue plasminogen activator (TPA). There are interventional procedures such as angioplasty.
Hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel breaks. This might be due to high BP or aneurysms (malformations in the vessels). This is treated by drugs to control pressure building up within the brain and the overall blood pressure.
The best way to prevent a stroke is by making lifestyle changes such as: eating a healthful diet, avoiding inactivity, maintain a good weight, avoid tobacco and drinking in moderation. Portion the amount of red and processed meat in the diet, as well as saturated fats. Be mindful and do moderate salt intake to support healthy blood. Oct 29th is celebrated as World Stroke Day to increase awareness. We must pay attention to F.A.S.T rule and save a possible stroke victim.
My References :
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stroke/symptoms-causes/syc-20350113
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