Sunday, 22 October 2023

Stroke



Stroke is a common presentation in the emergency room world wide 

It occurs when the blood flow to the brain is compromised due to the high tension in the brain

A stroke, sometimes called a brain attack, occurs when something blocks blood supply to part of the brain or when a blood vessel in the brain bursts.

In either case, parts of the brain become damaged or die. A stroke can cause lasting brain damage, long-term disability, or even death.

The leading cause of stroke world wide is hypertension

Other causes are

  • Being overweight or obese
  • Physical inactivity
  • Heavy or binge drinking
  • Use of illegal drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamine
  • Cigarette smoking or secondhand smoke exposure
  • High cholesterol
  • Diabetes
  • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • Personal or family history of stroke, heart attack or transient ischemic attack
  • Age: people age 55 or older have a higher risk of stroke 
  • Race: African Americans and Hispanics have a higher risk of stroke

The prevention of stroke is cheaper and better than it's management.

Medications adherence, regular clinic visit and lifestyle modification can prevent an individual from having a stroke.

Are you hypertensive ? 

Have you been experiencing

recurrent headaches

blurry vision

pins and needles sensation on your hands and feet

Trouble speaking or understanding

Dizziness

Fainting

Confusion

If yes to at least one of the symptoms above, then

Visit your doctor