The medical definition of a stroke is a sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain, leading to a lack of oxygen and nutrients to brain cells in the affected area. This interruption in blood flow can occur due to either a blockage in a blood vessel (ischemic stroke) or a rupture of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke).
Ischemic Stroke: This type of stroke occurs when a blood clot or atherosclerotic plaque (a fatty deposit) forms within a blood vessel supplying the brain or when a clot travels from elsewhere in the body (e.g., the heart) and blocks a brain artery. This obstruction prevents blood from reaching certain brain areas, causing damage to brain cells.
Hemorrhagic Stroke: This type of stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and leaks blood into the surrounding brain tissue. The increased pressure from the accumulating blood can damage brain cells and disrupt brain function.
Both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes can lead to significant neurological deficits, depending on the location and extent of brain damage. Symptoms of a stroke may include sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body (face, arm, or leg), sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech, sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes, sudden severe headache with no known cause, and difficulty walking or maintaining balance.
Immediate medical attention is crucial when someone experiences symptoms of a stroke because early intervention can help minimize brain damage and improve the chances of recovery. Treatments for stroke may involve administering clot-busting medications (for ischemic strokes), surgical procedures to remove clots or repair blood vessels, rehabilitation, and ongoing management to prevent future strokes.
If you suspect that someone is having a stroke, call emergency services immediately and seek medical attention to ensure prompt evaluation and appropriate treatment. Remember the acronym "FAST" to help recognize the signs of stroke: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call emergency services.