Stroke is a serious medical condition where the blood supply to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. This can cause brain cells to die within minutes.

Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing strokes. Prompt medical intervention can significantly improve the chances of recovery and reduce the risk of long-term disability.

Stroke can often be prevented through lifestyle changes and medication. However, once a stroke occurs, managing its effects and preventing further strokes become the primary focus. Many stroke survivors require ongoing treatment and rehabilitation to regain lost functions and adapt to new limitations.

Approximately 1-2% of India’s population is affected by stroke. Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking immediate medical attention is vital. Common symptoms include sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body, confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech, and severe headache with no known cause.

If you experience any signs of a stroke, seek emergency medical care immediately. Timely treatment can save lives and improve recovery outcomes.

Understanding Brain strokes requires a multifaceted approach. Some Brain stroke causes are:

1. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Chronic high blood pressure is the leading cause of strokes. It damages blood vessel walls over time, making them more likely to clog or burst.

2. Atherosclerosis: The buildup of plaques made up of fat, cholesterol, and other substances in the arterial walls narrows the arteries and reduces blood flow. If a plaque ruptures, it can lead to a blood clot that blocks a blood vessel in the brain.

3. Heart Disease: Conditions such as atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat), heart valve defects, and other heart-related issues can lead to the formation of blood clots that travel to the brain and cause a stroke.

4. Diabetes: Diabetes increases the risk of stroke by contributing to the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries (atherosclerosis) and increasing the risk of high blood pressure.

5. Unhealthy Diet: Diets high in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium can increase the risk of stroke by contributing to high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and obesity.

6. Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of stroke. It can also contribute to conditions that predispose one to stroke, such as obesity, liver damage, and diabetes.

7. Family History and Genetics: A family history of stroke or other cardiovascular diseases increases the risk. Certain genetic conditions can also predispose individuals to stroke.

8. Age: The risk of stroke increases with age, particularly after the age of 55.

9. Gender: While strokes can affect both men and women, some risk factors vary by gender. For instance, men are generally at higher risk at younger ages, while women’s risk increases significantly post-menopause.

10. Previous Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): A history of stroke or TIA, often called a mini-stroke, significantly increases the risk of a future stroke.

Brain stroke symptoms can vary widely depending on the type of stroke and the area of the brain affected, but there are some common signs to be aware of.
1. Sudden Numbness: One of the most recognizable symptoms of a stroke is sudden numbness or weakness, particularly on one side of the body. This may affect the face, arm, or leg. For instance, a person may notice that one side of their mouth is drooping, or they may be unable to raise one arm fully. Sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the body is a hallmark sign that should never be ignored.

2. Sudden confusion or difficulty speaking: This can manifest as slurred speech, difficulty finding the right words, or an inability to comprehend what others are saying. Stroke patients may suddenly have trouble reading or writing as well, and their usual communication abilities may be significantly impaired.

3. Visual Disturbances: Visual disturbances are also common in stroke victims. These can include sudden blurred or double vision, loss of vision in one or both eyes, or seeing flashes of light. These visual symptoms can be disorienting and alarming, and they often indicate that a stroke is affecting the part of the brain responsible for processing visual information.

4. Dizziness: A stroke can cause sudden dizziness, loss of balance, or lack of coordination. A person may suddenly find it difficult to walk or may feel as if the room is spinning. These symptoms are often accompanied by a severe headache, which may be described as the worst headache of the person’s life. This headache can be a sign of a hemorrhagic stroke, where a blood vessel in the brain bursts, leading to bleeding in the brain.

It is crucial to remember the acronym FAST to help recognize the symptoms of a stroke: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call emergency services.