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What is stroke?
W
hat is stroke?
A stroke occurs when blood flow to an
area of the brain is cut off. When this happens,
brain cells are deprived of oxygen and begin
to die. When brain cells die during a stroke,
abilities controlled by that area of the brain
such as memory and muscle control are lost.
How do you know if you are experiencing
a stroke?
The warning signs and symptoms of stroke are always sudden. The
damage to brain tissue can cause:
*Sudden numbness/weakness of the face, arms or legs, usually on one
side
*A sudden problem in speaking
*Abrupt dizziness or difficulty in balance, body coordination and
walking
*Abrupt intense headache
*Abrupt confusion or difficulty in comprehending
*Sudden trouble seeing or blurred vision in one or both eyes
What are the risk factors?
o Elderly (age 65 and older)
o Men have a higher risk for stroke
o Consistent high blood pressure
o Obesity or being overweight
o Physical inactivity / sedentary lifestyle
o High level of cholesterol / Poor diet choices
o Cigarette smoking
o Alcohol abuse
o Diabetes
o Cardiovascular diseases, such as heart failure, heart defects, heart
infection, or abnormal heart rhythm
o Personal or family history of stroke, heart attack, or transient ischemic
attack
What happens when you have a stroke?
A stroke may be caused by a blocked artery (ischemic stroke) or the
leaking or bursting of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). Some people
may experience only a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain
(transient ischemic attack, or TIA) that does not cause permanent damage.
How is a stroke diagnosed?
*Neurologic and Physical Examination - A thorough medical history as
well as complete neurological evaluation will be done by a doctor to help
find the location and severity of a stroke.
*Neuroimaging
o Computerized Tomography (CT) – This provides a clear picture of the
brain structure to determine if there is any abnormality.
o Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – Though more expensive, MRI
is a better test to determine brain abnormality especially during the early
moments of stroke (first 3 to 4.5 hours).
o Blood tests -These include tests to determine blood and bleeding
time (Complete blood count and Protime), Cholesterol level (Lipid
Disclaimer: Fit On Board gives only information that will help you understand ailments and its symptoms. Suggest
preventive measures but not as cures. It is still best suited for you to seek professional advice and consult your doctors…
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